Heating structure, method of manufacturing the same, and aerosol generating device including the same

Abstract

The present application relates to a heating structure, a manufacturing method thereof, and an aerosol generating device including the same. The heating structure is configured to generate heat using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and includes a substrate, a plurality of metal particles disposed on the substrate and configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance, and a partition wall disposed between adjacent metal particles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a heating structure that generates heat using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), for example, an aerosol generating apparatus including said heating structure. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, a technique for heating an object by generating heat is being developed. For example, heat can be generated by supplying power to a resistive element. As another example, heat can be generated through electromagnetic coupling between a coil and a base. The above description is based on knowledge or skills acquired by the inventors in the course of developing this disclosure and should not be construed as necessarily being general, well-known technology disclosed prior to the filing date of this application. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical issues

[0004] One aspect of this disclosure provides a heating structure that generates heat using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and an aerosol generating apparatus including the heating structure.

[0005] Technical solutions to the problem

[0006] A heating structure configured to generate heat using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) may include a substrate; a plurality of metal particles disposed on the substrate and configured to generate heat via surface plasmon resonance; and a partition wall disposed between adjacent metal particles.

[0007] The size of at least one of the plurality of metal particles may be different from the size of the other metal particles.

[0008] The partition wall can be arranged to prevent the adjacent metal particles from agglomerating.

[0009] The plurality of metal particles may have a boundary portion formed by the partition wall.

[0010] The plurality of metal particles can have nanoscale dimensions.

[0011] The partition wall can protrude from the substrate.

[0012] The partition wall may include multiple columns.

[0013] The partition wall may include a grid section.

[0014] The partition wall may include a heat-resistant material.

[0015] An aerosol generating apparatus may include: a light source; and a heating structure configured to receive light from the light source, wherein the heating structure may be a heating structure configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance, the heating structure may include: a substrate; a plurality of metal particles disposed on the substrate and configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance; and a partition wall disposed between adjacent metal particles.

[0016] A method for manufacturing a heating structure, the method comprising: forming a partition wall on one side of a substrate; forming a metal layer on the side of the substrate; and forming a plurality of metal particles of random size by annealing the metal layer.

[0017] Annealing the metal layer may include forming a boundary portion at the location where the partition wall is formed on the substrate.

[0018] Annealing the metal layer may include heating the metal layer at a temperature of about 160°C or greater.

[0019] Annealing the metal layer may include heating the metal layer to cause dewetting of the metal layer.

[0020] Forming the metal layer may include depositing the metal layer with a thickness of less than 10 nm and equal to about 10 nm.

[0021] Beneficial effects of the invention

[0022] According to one embodiment, when heating an object with the heating structure, the object can be heated locally or at least a portion of a plurality of objects can be heated. According to one embodiment, the heating efficiency of the heating structure can be maintained or improved. The effects of the heating structure and the aerosol generating apparatus including the heating structure according to one embodiment are not limited to the effects described above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Figures 1 to 3 The accompanying drawing shows an example of an aerosol-generating article inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The accompanying drawings are of an example of an aerosol-generated article according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figures 7 to 12 The accompanying drawings are of a method for manufacturing a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 13 It is a graph comparing the temperature rise of the heating structure with the output power of the light source, where the heating structure is manufactured at different annealing temperatures.

[0029] Figure 14 This is a graph comparing the absorbance of the heated structure at different wavelengths, where the heated structure is manufactured at different annealing temperatures.

[0030] Figure 15 This is a top view of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 16 The accompanying drawing shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] In selecting the terminology used in the embodiments, the functionality of the embodiments was considered, and widely used general terms were selected whenever possible. However, differences may exist based on the intent of those skilled in the art, precedents, or new technologies. In certain circumstances, the applicant may also arbitrarily choose terms, but in such cases, the meaning of the term will be explained in detail in the corresponding section of the specification. Therefore, the terminology used in this disclosure is not a designation of the term and should be defined according to its meaning and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0033] It will be understood that when a part "includes" a particular component, unless otherwise specified, that component does not exclude other components, but may include another component. Furthermore, terms such as "-part" and "-module" used in this specification refer to a component used to perform at least one function or operation, and may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0034] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to readily implement the invention. However, the invention can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0035] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Figures 1 to 3 This is a view illustrating an example of an aerosol-generated article inserted into an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0037] Reference Figure 1 The aerosol generating device 1 may include a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. (See reference...) Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a vaporizer 14. In addition, the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., a cigarette) may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0038] Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown may include components related to the embodiments described herein. Therefore, those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that, in addition to… Figures 1 to 3 In addition to the components shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include other general-purpose components.

[0039] Furthermore, although shown Figure 2 and Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 includes a heater 13, but the heater 13 can be omitted as needed.

[0040] Figure 1 The linear alignment of the battery 11, control unit 12, and heater 13 is shown. Figure 2 The linear arrangement of the battery 11, control unit 12, vaporizer 14 and heater 13 is shown. Figure 3 The vaporizer 14 and heater 13 are shown in parallel alignment. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to this. Figures 1 to 3 The internal structure is shown. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14 can be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0041] When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can activate the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate aerosols. The aerosols generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 can be delivered to the user through the aerosol generating article 2.

[0042] Even when the aerosol generating article 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 can still heat the aerosol generating device 1 as needed by the heater 13.

[0043] Battery 11 can provide the power required for the operation of aerosol generating device 1. For example, battery 11 can provide power to heat heater 13 or vaporizer 14, and can also provide power required for the operation of control unit 12. Battery 11 can also provide power required for the operation of displays, sensors, motors, etc. installed in aerosol generating device 1.

[0044] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, in addition to controlling the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, the control unit 12 can also control the corresponding operations of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state by checking the status of each component in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0045] The control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that the at least one processor may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0046] The heater 13 can be heated by electricity supplied by the battery 11. For example, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the aerosol generating article. Thus, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating substance inside the aerosol generating article.

[0047] Heater 13 can be a resistance heater. For example, heater 13 includes a conductive track through which current flows, and heater 13 can be heated. However, heater 13 is not limited to the example above, and any example of heating heater 13 to a desired temperature is applicable and not limited thereto. Here, the desired temperature can be preset in aerosol generating apparatus 1, or the desired temperature can be set by the user.

[0048] As another example, heater 13 may be an induction heater. Specifically, heater 13 may include a conductive coil for induction heating of the aerosol-generating article, and the aerosol-generating article may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

[0049] For example, heater 13 may include tubular heating elements, plate heating elements, needle heating elements or rod heating elements, and heater 13 may heat the inside or outside of aerosol generating article 2 according to the shape of the heating elements.

[0050] Furthermore, the heaters 13 can be configured such that multiple heaters 13 can be arranged in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the multiple heaters 13 can be arranged to be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2 or disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2. Additionally, some of the multiple heaters 13 can be arranged to be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2, while the remaining heaters can be disposed outside the aerosol generating article 2. However, the shape of the heaters 13 is not limited to... Figures 1 to 3 The shape can also be set to various shapes.

[0051] The vaporizer 14 can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user via the aerosol generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can travel along the airflow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can be delivered to the user via the aerosol generating article.

[0052] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include a liquid storage section (e.g., a reservoir), a liquid delivery device, and a heating element. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage section, the liquid delivery device, and the heating element may be included as independent modules in the aerosol generating apparatus 1.

[0053] The reservoir can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco aromatic components, or it may be a liquid including non-tobacco substances. The reservoir may be manufactured to be detachable from and attachable to the vaporizer 14, or the reservoir may be manufactured to be integrally formed with the vaporizer 14.

[0054] For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrance, flavoring agent, or vitamin mixture. Fragrance may include, for example, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavoring ingredients, etc. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. The flavoring agent may include ingredients that provide the user with different fragrances or flavors. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. However, the embodiments are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the liquid composition may include aerosol forming agents, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0055] A liquid delivery device can transfer a liquid composition from a storage compartment to a heating structure. For example, the liquid delivery device can be a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. However, embodiments are not limited to this.

[0056] The heating element can be an element configured to heat the liquid composition conveyed by the liquid delivery device. For example, the heating element can be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. Furthermore, the heating element may include a conductive wire, such as a nichrome wire, and the heating element may be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid delivery device. With the supply of current, the heating element can be heated, and the heating element can transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. Ultimately, an aerosol can be generated.

[0057] For example, the vaporizer 14 can also be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0058] In addition to the battery 11, control unit 12, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include other general components. For example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a display that outputs visual information and / or a motor that outputs tactile information. Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include at least one sensor (e.g., a suction sensor, a temperature sensor, an insertion detection sensor for the aerosol generating article, etc.). Moreover, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be manufactured with a structure that allows the inflow of external air and the outflow of internal gas when the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted.

[0059] although Figures 1 to 3 As not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 can be configured as a system together with a separate bracket. For example, the bracket can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, when the bracket is connected to the aerosol generating device 1, it can also be used to heat the heater 13.

[0060] The aerosol generating article 2 can be similar to a conventional combustible cigarette. For example, the aerosol generating article 2 can be divided into a first part including aerosol generating material and a second part including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second part of the aerosol generating article 2 can also include aerosol generating material. For example, aerosol generating material configured in the form of particles or capsules can also be inserted into the second part.

[0061] The first part can be inserted entirely into the aerosol generating device 1, while the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only the first part can be partially inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the first part can be inserted entirely into the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part can be partially inserted into the aerosol generating device 1. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. At this time, as outside air passes through the first part, an aerosol can be generated, and the generated aerosol can pass through the second part and be delivered to the user's mouth.

[0062] For example, external air can be introduced through at least one air path formed in the aerosol generating device 1. In this example, the user can adjust the opening or closing of the air path formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air path. Thus, the user can adjust the atomization amount, suction sensation, etc. As another example, external air can also be introduced into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0063] Below, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 To illustrate an example of aerosol-generated product 2.

[0064] Figure 4 and Figure 5 This is an illustration showing an example of an aerosol-generated article.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 The aerosol-generating article 2 may include a tobacco stick 21 and a filter stick 22. (See above for reference.) Figures 1 to 3 The first part 21 of the description may include a tobacco stick 21, and the second part 22 may include a filter stick 22.

[0066] Although filter rod 22 is shown as having Figure 4 The filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may also include multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a filtering segment for filtering predetermined components contained in the aerosol. In addition, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment that performs other functions as needed.

[0067] The diameter of the aerosol-generating article 2 can be within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length of the aerosol-generating article is approximately 48 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the length of the tobacco stick 21 can be approximately 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter stick 22 can be approximately 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter stick 22 can be approximately 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter stick 22 can be approximately 12 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0068] The aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged in at least one package 24. The package 24 may have at least one hole through which external air is introduced or internal gas flows out. As an example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged in a single package 24. As another example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can also be packaged in a stacked manner using two or more packages 24. For example, a tobacco stick 21 is packaged in a first package 241, and a filter stick 22 is packaged in packages 242, 243, and 244. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged again as a whole using a single package 245. For example, when the filter stick 22 comprises multiple segments, each segment can be packaged in packages 242, 243, and 244.

[0069] The first package 241 and the second package 242 can be formed from conventional filter rod packaging paper. For example, the first package 241 and the second package 242 can be porous or non-porous packaging paper. In addition, the first package 241 and the second package 242 can be formed from oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum laminated packaging materials.

[0070] The third package 243 can be rigid packaging paper. For example, the basis weight of the third package 243 can be 88 g / m³. 2 Up to 96g / m 2 Ideally, it could be included in the range of 90 g / m 2 Up to 94g / m 2 The thickness of the third package 243 can be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and ideally, the thickness of the third package 243 can be about 125 μm.

[0071] The fourth package 244 is an oil-resistant rigid packaging paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth package 244 may include 88 g / m³. 2 Up to 96g / m 2 Within the range, and ideally, at 90g / m 2 Up to 94g / m 2 The thickness of the fourth package 244 can be in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and ideally, the thickness of the fourth package 244 can be about 125 μm.

[0072] The fifth package 245 can be formed from sterilized paper (e.g., MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) is a specially prepared paper that is superior to ordinary paper in terms of tensile strength, water resistance, and smoothness. For example, the basis weight of the fifth package 245 can range from 57 g / m³. 2 Up to 63g / m 2 Within the range, and ideally, it can be about 60g / m2 Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth package 245 can range from 64 μm to 70 μm, and ideally, the thickness of the fifth package 245 can be approximately 67 μm.

[0073] The fifth package 245 may have a predetermined material added internally to the fifth package. For example, the predetermined material may be silicon. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, silicon may have properties such as heat resistance that is not easily affected by temperature, oxidation resistance that is not easily oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, or electrical insulation. However, it is not necessary to use silicon; any material with the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or used for coating) to the fifth package 245 without limitation.

[0074] The fifth package 245 prevents the aerosol-generating article 2 from igniting. For example, there is a possibility that the aerosol-generating article 2 may ignite when the tobacco stick 21 is heated by the heater 13. Specifically, the aerosol-generating article 2 may ignite when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any of the materials contained in the tobacco stick 21. Even if this occurs, the fifth package 245 still prevents the aerosol-generating article 2 from igniting because it contains non-combustible materials.

[0075] Furthermore, the fifth packaging component 245 prevents the aerosol generating device (e.g., a cigarette holder) from being contaminated by substances generated in the aerosol generating article 2. When the user inhales, liquid substances may be generated in the aerosol generating article 2. For example, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 2 is cooled by outside air, liquid substances (e.g., moisture) may be produced. By enclosing the aerosol generating article 2 with the fifth packaging component 245, leakage of liquid substances generated in the aerosol generating article 2 to the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 can be prevented.

[0076] The tobacco stick 21 may include aerosol-generating substances. For example, aerosol-generating substances may include at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. However, embodiments are not limited thereto. The tobacco stick 21 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 21 may include a flavoring liquid, which is added when the flavoring liquid is sprayed onto the tobacco stick 21; this flavoring liquid may be menthol or a humectant.

[0077] The tobacco stick 21 can be manufactured in various forms. For example, the tobacco stick 21 can be formed as a sheet or a strand. Alternatively, the tobacco stick 21 can also be made from tobacco shreds obtained from shredded tobacco sheets. Furthermore, the tobacco stick 21 can be wrapped with a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil, such as aluminum foil. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the heat-conducting material wrapping the tobacco stick 21 can uniformly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco stick 21, thereby improving the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco stick and thus improving the flavor of the tobacco. Furthermore, the heat-conducting material wrapping the tobacco stick 21 can serve as a base heated by an induction heater. In this case, although not shown, in addition to the heat-conducting material wrapping the exterior of the tobacco stick, the tobacco stick 21 may also include an additional base.

[0078] Filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. However, the shape of filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod, or filter rod 22 can be a hollow tubular rod. Alternatively, filter rod 22 can also be a grooved rod. For example, when filter rod 22 comprises multiple segments, at least one of the segments can be manufactured in a different shape.

[0079] The first section of filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter rod. For example, the first section can be a hollow tubular structure. When heater 13 is inserted into tobacco rod 21, the first section can prevent the internal material of tobacco rod 21 from being pushed backward, and the first section can cool the aerosol. The ideal diameter of the hollow portion included in the first section can be in the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0080] The ideal length of the first segment can be between 4mm and 30mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. Ideally, the length of the first segment can be 10mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0081] The first segment can have the following hardness: during the manufacturing process of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by regulating the content of the plasticizer. Furthermore, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a membrane or tube of the same or different materials into the first segment (e.g., inserting it into a hollow section).

[0082] The second section of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 13. This allows the user to inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0083] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the aerosol-generated article 2. For example, the ideal length of the second segment can be in the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Ideally, the length of the second segment can be about 14 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0084] The second segment can be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance liquid can be applied to fibers formed from polymer. As another example, the second segment can be made by weaving together separate fibers coated with fragrance liquid and fibers made of polymer. In yet another example, the second segment can be formed from a rolled polymer sheet.

[0085] For example, the polymer can be prepared from materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0086] Because the second segment is made of woven polymer fibers or rolled polymer sheets, it may include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. As used herein, a channel refers to the path through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0087] For example, the second segment formed by rolling up the polymer sheet can be formed using a material with a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Furthermore, the total surface area of ​​the second segment can be about 300 mm². 2 / mm to approximately 1000mm 2 Between / mm. Additionally, aerosol cooling elements can be made with a specific surface area of ​​approximately 10mm². 2 / mg to approximately 100mg 2 / mg of material formation.

[0088] Additionally, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile aroma component. This volatile aroma component may be menthol. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide at least 1.5 mg of menthol to the second segment.

[0089] The third section of filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter rod. The ideal length of the third section can be between 4 mm and 20 mm. For example, the length of the third section can be approximately 12 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0090] The third section can be manufactured such that fragrance is generated during its manufacture by spraying a fragrance liquid onto it. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the fragrance liquid can be inserted into the third section. The aerosol generated in the tobacco stick 21 can be cooled as it passes through the second section of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol can be delivered to the user through the third section. Therefore, when a fragrance element is added to the third section, the fragrance delivered to the user can last for a longer period.

[0091] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can function to generate fragrance or to produce aerosols. For example, the capsule 23 may be a structure that encapsulates a fragrance-containing liquid with a membrane. The capsule 23 may be spherical or cylindrical in shape. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0092] Reference Figure 5 The aerosol generating article 3 may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be disposed on the side of the tobacco stick 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 prevents the tobacco stick 31 from detaching to the outside and also prevents liquid aerosol in the tobacco stick 31 from flowing into the aerosol generating device (e.g., during smoking). Figures 1 to 3 Aerosol generating device 1).

[0093] The filter rod 32 may also include a first section 321 and a second section 322. Here, the first section 321 may correspond to... Figure 4 The first segment of filter rod 22, and the second segment 322 can correspond to Figure 4 The third section of filter rod 22.

[0094] The diameter and overall length of the aerosol-generated product 3 can correspond to Figure 4 The diameter and overall length of the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the length of the front plug 33 can be approximately 7 mm, the length of the tobacco stick 31 can be approximately 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 can be approximately 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 can be approximately 14 mm. However, the embodiments are not limited to this.

[0095] The aerosol-generating article 3 can be packaged in at least one package 35. The package 35 has at least one opening through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. For example, a first package 351 can be used to package the front plug 33, a second package 352 can be used to package the tobacco stick 31, a third package 353 can be used to package the first segment 321, and a fourth package 354 can be used to package the second segment 322. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article 3 can be completely packaged again in a fifth package 355.

[0096] At least one perforation 36 may be formed on the fifth package 355. For example, the perforation 36 may be formed in the area surrounding the tobacco stick 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 serves to allow passage through... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The heater 13 shown has the function of transferring heat generated to the interior of the tobacco stick 81.

[0097] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule-like element 34. Here, the capsule-like element 34 can function to generate fragrance or to produce aerosols. For example, the capsule-like element 34 may have a structure in which a fragrance-containing liquid is encapsulated by a membrane. The capsule-like element 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited to this.

[0098] The first package 351 can be a combination of conventional filter packaging paper and metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the overall thickness of the first package 351 can range from 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably about 50.3 μm. Furthermore, the thickness of the metal foil in the first package 351 can range from 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. Additionally, the basis weight of the first package 351 can range from 50 g / m³. 2 Up to 55g / m 2 Within this range, 53g / m² is preferred. 2 .

[0099] The second package 352 and the third package 353 can be conventional filter packaging paper. For example, the second package 352 and the third package 353 can be porous packaging paper or non-porous packaging paper.

[0100] For example, the porosity of the second packaging component 352 can be 35000 CU, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the thickness of the second packaging component 352 can range from 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably about 78 μm. And the basis weight of the second packaging component 352 can range from 20 g / m³. 2 Up to 25g / m 2 The preferred concentration is 23.5 g / m³. 2 .

[0101] For example, the porosity of the third packaging component 353 can be 24000 CU, but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the thickness of the third packaging component 353 can range from 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably about 68 μm. And the basis weight of the third packaging component 353 can range from 20 g / m³. 2 Up to 25g / m 2 Within this range, 21g / m² is preferred. 2 .

[0102] The fourth package 354 can be formed of polylactic acid (PLA) laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper refers to a three-layer paper comprising a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer again. For example, the thickness of the fourth package 354 can range from 100 μm to 120 μm, preferably about 110 μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the fourth package 354 can range from 80 g / m³. 2 Up to 100g / m 2 The preferred value is 88g / m 2 .

[0103] The fifth package 355 can be sterilized paper (e.g., MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) is a specially manufactured paper that is superior to ordinary paper in terms of tensile strength, water resistance, and smoothness. For example, the basis weight of the fifth package 355 can be 57 g / m³. 2 Up to 63g / m 2 Within this range, approximately 60g / m³ is preferred. 2 Furthermore, the thickness of the fifth package 355 can range from 64 μm to 70 μm, preferably about 67 μm.

[0104] The fifth package 355 may have a predetermined material added internally to the fifth package. Here, the predetermined material may be, for example, silicon. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance that is not easily affected by temperature, oxidation resistance that is not easily oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water resistance, or electrical insulation. However, it may not be necessary to use silicon; any material with the above-mentioned properties may be added (or used for coating) to the fifth package 355 without restriction.

[0105] The front plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the front plug 33 can be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. The monodenier of the filaments formed from the cellulose acetate tow can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the monodenier of the filaments of the front plug 33 can be about 5.0. Furthermore, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the front plug 33 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the front plug 33 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front plug 33 can be 28,000.

[0106] As needed, the front plug 33 may include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of each channel may be different.

[0107] Tobacco stick 31 can correspond to the above reference. Figure 4The tobacco stick 21 is described below. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco stick 31 will be omitted below.

[0108] The first segment 321 may be formed from cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a hollow tubular structure. The first segment 321 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. For example, the denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the denier of the first segment 321.

[0109] The second segment 322 can be formed from cellulose acetate. The denier of the filament constituting the second segment 322 can be in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the denier of the filament of the second segment 322 can be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filament of the second segment 322 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0110] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 400 according to one embodiment.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 400 may include a control unit 410, a sensing unit 420, an output unit 430, a battery 440, a heater 450, a user input unit 460, a memory 470, and a communication unit 480. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 400 is not limited to this. Figure 6 The internal structure is shown. It will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that it can be omitted depending on the different designs of the aerosol generating apparatus 400. Figure 6 The parts shown may be further supplemented with new parts.

[0112] The sensing unit 420 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the state of the surrounding environment of the aerosol generating device 400, and transmit the sensing information obtained by sensing to the control unit 410. The control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 based on the sensing information to control the following operations: operation of the heater 450, restriction of smoking, determination of whether to insert an aerosol generating product (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.), display of notifications, execution of other functions, etc.

[0113] The sensing unit 420 may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a temperature sensor 422, an insertion detection sensor 424, and a suction sensor 426.

[0114] Temperature sensor 422 can sense the temperature at which heater 450 (or aerosol generating material) is heated. Aerosol generating device 400 may include a separate temperature sensor to sense the temperature of heater 450, or heater 450 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, temperature sensor 422 may be positioned around battery 440 to monitor the temperature of battery 440.

[0115] Insertion detection sensor 424 can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is inserted and / or removed. For example, insertion detection sensor 424 may include at least one of, for example, a membrane sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and the insertion detection sensor can sense signal changes caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article.

[0116] The suction sensor 426 can sense suction from the user based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the suction sensor 426 can sense suction from the user based on any of the following: temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0117] In addition to the sensors 422 to 426 described above, the sensing unit 420 may also include at least one of the following: a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS)), a proximity sensor, and a red-green-blue (RGB) sensor (e.g., an illuminance sensor). Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, further detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0118] The output unit 430 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 400 and provide the information to the user. The output unit 430 may include at least one of the display unit 432, the tactile unit 434, and the sound output unit 436, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 432 and the touchpad are provided in a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display unit 432 can be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0119] Display unit 432 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating apparatus 400 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating apparatus 400 may include various information such as the charging / discharging status of the battery 440, the preheating status of the heater 450, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article, and the usage limitation status of the aerosol generating apparatus 400 (e.g., abnormal article detected), and display unit 432 can output this information to an external device. Display unit 432 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display panel (OLED), etc. Display unit 432 may also be in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED) device.

[0120] The tactile component 434 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the tactile component 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0121] The sound output unit 436 can provide information about the aerosol generating device 400 to the user via sound. For example, the sound output unit 436 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0122] Battery 440 provides the power required to operate the aerosol generating device 400. Battery 440 can power the heater 450 for heating. Furthermore, battery 440 can supply the power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 400, such as sensing unit 420, output unit 430, user input unit 460, memory 470, and communication unit 480. Battery 440 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, battery 440 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to this.

[0123] Heater 450 can receive power from battery 440 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although Figure 6 Although not shown, the aerosol generating apparatus 400 may also include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC-to-DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 440 to supply power to the heater 450. Additionally, when the aerosol generating apparatus 400 generates aerosols by induction heating, it may also include a DC-to-AC converter that converts the DC power from the battery 440 into AC power.

[0124] The control unit 410, sensing unit 420, output unit 430, user input unit 460, memory 470, and communication unit 480 can receive power from the battery 440 to perform their functions. Although Figure 6As not shown, the aerosol generating device 400 may also include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies the power to various components, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit.

[0125] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can be formed of any suitable resistive material. For example, the resistive material can be a metal or metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium, etc., but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the heater 130 can be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate provided with conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0126] In one embodiment, heater 450 may be an induction heater. For example, heater 450 may include a susceptor that heats up by a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0127] In one embodiment, heater 450 may include multiple heaters. For example, heater 450 may include a first heater for heating aerosol-generating articles and a second heater for heating liquids.

[0128] The user input unit 460 can receive user input or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 460 may include a keyboard, a dome switch, a touchpad (e.g., capacitive, pressure-resistive film, infrared sensing, surface ultrasonic conduction, overall tension measurement, piezoelectric effect, etc.), a scroll wheel, a scroll wheel switch, etc., but the embodiments are not limited to these. Furthermore, although... Figure 6 As not shown, the aerosol generating device 400 may also include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to another external device via such a connection interface to transmit and receive information or to charge the battery 440.

[0129] The memory 470 is hardware used to store various data processed in the aerosol generating apparatus 400. The memory 470 can store data processed by the control unit 410 and data to be processed. The memory 470 can include at least one of the following storage media types: flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, card-type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, or optical disk. The memory 470 can store the operating time of the aerosol generating apparatus 400, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data associated with the user's smoking pattern.

[0130] The communication unit 480 may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 480 may include a short-range communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484.

[0131] The short-range wireless communication unit 482 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but the implementation is not limited to these.

[0132] The wireless communication unit 484 may include, for example, but not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)) communication unit, etc. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. The wireless communication unit 484 may use subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) to identify and verify the aerosol generating device 400 within the communication network.

[0133] The control unit 410 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 400. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may include at least one processor. The at least one processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that the control unit may be implemented in other types of hardware.

[0134] The control unit 410 can control the temperature of the heater 450 by controlling the power supply from the battery 440 to the heater 450. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. In another example, the direct heating circuit can control the power supply to the heater 450 according to the control command from the control unit 410.

[0135] The control unit 410 can analyze the sensing results obtained by the sensing unit 420 and control subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supplied to the heater 450 based on the sensing results obtained by the sensing unit 420, thereby starting and stopping the operation of the heater 450. As another example, the control unit 410 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 450 and the duration of power supply based on the sensing results obtained by the sensing unit 420, so that the heater 450 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a suitable temperature.

[0136] The control unit 410 can control the output unit 430 based on the sensing results obtained by the sensing unit 420. For example, when the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor 426 reaches a preset number, the control unit 410 can notify the user that the aerosol generating device 400 is about to stop through at least one of the display unit 432, the tactile unit 434, and the sound output unit 436.

[0137] In one embodiment, the control unit 410 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 450 based on the state of the aerosol generating article sensed by the sensing unit 420. For example, when the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 410 can control the power supply time to the induction coil, thereby extending the preheating time compared to when the aerosol generating article is in a normal state.

[0138] One embodiment can also be implemented as a recording medium, which includes computer-executable instructions, such as computer-executable program modules. Computer-readable media can be any available medium accessible to a computer, and available media include all volatile, non-volatile, removable, and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media can include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage medium includes all volatile / non-volatile and removable / non-removable media implemented through a particular method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instruction code, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instruction code, data structures, other data in modulated data signals such as program modules or other transmission mechanisms, and communication media include any information transmission medium.

[0139] Figures 7 to 12 The accompanying drawings illustrate a method for manufacturing a heating structure according to one embodiment. The order of operations in manufacturing the heating structure is not limited to the order described herein; at least one additional operation step may be included between the operation steps, any of the described operation steps may be omitted, or the order of some operations may be changed.

[0140] Reference Figure 7 The method of manufacturing the heating structure 550 may include the step of providing a substrate 551. The substrate 551 may be a plate-like shape having opposite sides. At least one side of the substrate 551 may be formed as a generally flat surface.

[0141] In one embodiment, the substrate 551 may be formed of different materials. For example, the substrate 551 may be made of glass, silicon (Si), silicon dioxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other material suitable for thermal conductivity. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may be made of any one or a combination of glass, silicon (Si), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and sapphire. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may include a material having a relatively low thermal conductivity. This allows heat to be transferred only locally to a portion of the substrate 551.

[0142] In one embodiment, substrate 551 may be conductive. Alternatively, substrate 551 may be electrically insulating.

[0143] In one embodiment, the substrate 551 may be formed of a material having any thermal conductivity suitable for use in an environment where the heating structure 550 is arranged. For example, at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C, the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less than 0.6 W / mK, about 1 W / mK to about 2 W / mK, about 2 W / mK to about 5 W / mK, about 5 W / mK to about 10 W / mK, about 10 W / mK to about 100 W / mK, or about 100 W / mK to about 200 W / mK. In some embodiments, at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C, the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less than 0.6 W / mK, about 1.3 W / mK, about 148 W / mK, or about 46.06 W / mK.

[0144] Reference Figure 8 The method of manufacturing the heating structure 550 may include, for example, on one side of the substrate 551, Figure 8 The operation step of forming a partition wall 552 on the substrate 551 (above). The partition wall 552 may include a plurality of pillars. The plurality of pillars may be arranged spaced apart from each other along a first length direction (e.g., horizontal direction) and / or along a second length direction (e.g., vertical direction) intersecting the first length direction.

[0145] In one embodiment, the plurality of pillars can be formed by deposition on the substrate 551 in any suitable manner. For example, the plurality of pillars can be deposited by physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, and / or any other suitable method.

[0146] In one embodiment, multiple pillars can be formed by arranging material on one side of substrate 551 and etching the arranged material.

[0147] In one embodiment, the multiple columns may have the shape of cylinders or elliptical cylinders. In another embodiment, the multiple columns may have the shape of polygonal columns.

[0148] In one embodiment, the multiple pillars may comprise a heat-resistant material. Even at relatively high temperature environments (e.g., approximately 200°C), the shape of the multiple pillars will not substantially change.

[0149] In one embodiment, a plurality of pillars may protrude from one side of the substrate 551. The protrusion length (e.g., height) of the plurality of pillars may be about 20 nm or less, about 15 nm or less, or about 10 nm or less. The protrusion length of the plurality of pillars may be about 2 nm or greater, about 5 nm or greater, or about 10 nm or greater.

[0150] In one embodiment, a plurality of posts may be fixed to a substrate 551. In another embodiment, the plurality of posts are arranged on the substrate 551 in a manner removable from the substrate 551.

[0151] Reference Figure 9 The manufacturing method of the heating structure 550 may include the step of forming a metal layer 553 on one side of a substrate 551 including a partition wall 552.

[0152] In one embodiment, the metal layer 553 can be formed by applying metal particles to one side of the substrate 551. For example, the metal particles can be deposited by sputtering, ion beam deposition, thermal evaporation, chemical vapor deposition, plasma deposition, and / or any other suitable deposition method.

[0153] In one embodiment, a metal layer 553 can be formed by depositing a film on one side of a substrate 551.

[0154] In one embodiment, the metal layer 553 may be formed of any material suitable for generating heat through interaction with light of a specific wavelength band (e.g., the visible light wavelength band, i.e., about 380 nm to about 780 nm). For example, the metal layer 553 may include at least one or a combination thereof of gold, silver, copper, palladium, and platinum.

[0155] In one embodiment, the metal layer 553 may be formed of a metallic material having an average maximum absorbance. The average maximum absorbance may refer to the absorbance that substantially has a peak value within a specific wavelength band. The specific wavelength band corresponding to the absorbance can be understood as the wavelength band in which the metal particles resonate. For example, the metal particles may have an average maximum absorbance within wavelength bands between approximately 430 nm and approximately 450 nm, approximately 480 nm and approximately 500 nm, approximately 490 nm and approximately 510 nm, approximately 500 nm and approximately 520 nm, approximately 550 nm and approximately 570 nm, approximately 600 nm and approximately 620 nm, approximately 620 nm and approximately 640 nm, approximately 630 nm and approximately 650 nm, approximately 640 nm and approximately 660 nm, approximately 680 nm and approximately 700 nm, or approximately 700 nm and approximately 750 nm.

[0156] In one embodiment, the thickness of the metal layer 553 may be about 20 nm or less. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the metal layer 553 may be about 10 nm or less. When the thickness of the metal layer 553 formed on the substrate 551 exceeds 10 nm, it will reduce the performance of the structure formed by the metal layer 553 (e.g., Figure 12 The exothermic reaction occurs in the metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4. Furthermore, the possibility of heat loss to the vicinity of the heating structure 550 may increase, potentially reducing the thermal efficiency of the heating structure 550.

[0157] Reference Figure 10 The manufacturing method of the heating structure 550 may include an annealing operation step on the metal layer 553 on the substrate 551. When the metal layer 553 is annealed, a boundary portion B (e.g., a grain boundary) may be formed between adjacent metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4.

[0158] In one embodiment, during the annealing step of the metal layer 553, the heating temperature of the metal layer 553 can be about 150°C or greater, about 160°C or greater, about 170°C or greater, about 180°C or greater, about 190°C or greater, about 200°C or greater, about 210°C or greater, about 220°C or greater, about 230°C or greater, or about 240°C or greater.

[0159] Reference Figure 11Multiple metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 on substrate 551 can be deformed based on partition wall 552. In the annealing environment, flux is applied to adjacent metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 set on either side with partition wall 552 as reference, and can cause dewetting of multiple metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4.

[0160] Reference Figure 12 Multiple metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be formed on the substrate 551 by dehumidification in an annealing environment. The partition wall 552 corresponding to the boundary portion B can separate the multiple metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4.

[0161] Multiple metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can have random sizes. The size of one of the metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be different from the size of another metal particle.

[0162] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, P4 may have nanoscale dimensions. For example, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, P4 may have random sizes within an average maximum diameter range of about 1 μm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, P4 may have random sizes within an average maximum diameter range of about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, about 500 nm or less, about 400 nm or less, about 300 nm or less, about 200 nm or less, about 150 nm or less, or about 100 nm or less.

[0163] Multiple metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 will not aggregate beyond the partition wall 552. For example, in a relatively high temperature environment, the partition wall 552 can reduce or prevent the aggregation of adjacent metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4.

[0164] Figure 13 This is a graph comparing the temperature rise of heating structures manufactured at various annealing temperatures with respect to the output power of the light source.

[0165] Reference Figure 13 , Figure 13The graph shows the temperature rise of each heating structure relative to the output power of the light source (e.g., a laser). The first heating structure H1 comprises multiple metal particles formed by annealing a gold film at approximately 160°C. The second heating structure H2 comprises multiple metal particles formed by annealing a gold film at approximately 180°C. The third heating structure H3 comprises multiple metal particles formed by annealing a gold film at approximately 200°C. As the power of the light emitted toward heating structures H1, H2, and H3 increases, the heating structures H1, H2, and H3 exhibit similar temperature rise results. At a laser output power of approximately 910 milliwatts (mW), all heating structures H1, H2, and H3 reach a target temperature of approximately 320°C.

[0166] Figure 14 It is a graph comparing the absorbance of the heated structure at different wavelengths, where the heated structure is manufactured at different annealing temperatures.

[0167] Figure 14 A graph comparing the absorbance of different heating structures based on light emitted from a light source (e.g., a laser) at different wavelengths is shown. The control heating structure H0 includes a structure in which the gold film is not annealed. The tested heating structures H1, H2, H3, H4, and H5 consist of multiple metal particles of random sizes formed by annealing the gold film at approximately 160°C, 180°C, 200°C, 220°C, and 240°C, respectively. Among the tested heating structures H1, H2, H3, H4, and H5, heating structure H5, which annealed the gold film at approximately 240°C, exhibits an absorbance peak at approximately 640 nm, while the absorbance of the other tested heating structures H1, H2, H3, and H4 generally increases with increasing wavelength. Meanwhile, with increasing wavelength, the increase in absorbance of the control heating structure H0, which was not annealed, is greater than that of the tested heating structures.

[0168] Figure 15 This is a top view of a heating structure according to one embodiment.

[0169] Reference Figure 15The heating structure 650 may include a substrate 651, a plurality of metal particles P of random size, and partition walls G1 and G2 separating the plurality of metal particles P. The partition walls G1 and G2 may be formed into a grid on the substrate 651. For example, the partition walls G1 and G2 may include a plurality of first partitions G1 extending in a first direction (e.g., the + / -X direction) of the substrate 651 and disposed in a second direction (e.g., the + / -Y direction) intersecting the first direction; and a plurality of second partitions G2 extending in the second direction of the substrate 651 and arranged in the first direction. For example, when the heating structure 650 is in a high-temperature environment, the plurality of first partitions G1 and the plurality of second partitions G2 may reduce or prevent the aggregation of the plurality of metal particles P.

[0170] Figure 16 The accompanying drawings are of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0171] Reference Figure 16 The aerosol generating apparatus 700 may include at least one heating structure 750 (e.g., heaters 13, 450 and / or heating structures 550, 650) configured for heating aerosol generating articles (e.g., aerosol generating articles 2, 3), and at least one light source 755 configured to irradiate light toward the at least one heating structure 750. On one hand, in Figure 16 In the aerosol generating apparatus 700, the aerosol generating apparatus 700 includes a control unit 710 configured to control the heating structure 750 and / or the light source 755, and a battery 740 configured to supply power to the control unit 710, but may also include or omit other components.

[0172] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 700 may include a single heating structure 750. The heating structure 750 may at least partially enclose a chamber for placing the aerosol generating article. The heating structure 750 may have a structure in which, for example, substrates 551, 651 have at least partially curved surfaces.

[0173] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 700 may include a plurality of heating structures 750. The plurality of heating structures 750 may be located at different positions depending on the chamber in which the aerosol generating article is placed. The metal materials of the metal prisms included in the plurality of heating structures 750 may be the same or different.

[0174] In one embodiment, the light source 755 can be configured to transmit an optical signal to the heating structure 750 at a predetermined angle. For example, the light source 755 can transmit the optical signal at an angle that produces total internal reflection at the surface of the heating structure 750. In one embodiment, the light source 755 can transmit an optical signal to the heating structure 750 at any angle.

[0175] In one embodiment, the light source 755 may be configured to emit light in the ultraviolet, visible, and / or infrared bands. In some embodiments, the light source 755 may be configured to transmit light in the visible band (e.g., about 380 nm to about 780 nm).

[0176] In some embodiments, the light source 755 may be configured to emit light in a frequency band corresponding to the metal particle material. For example, the light source 755 may emit light in a wavelength band corresponding to the average maximum absorbance of the metal particle material.

[0177] In one embodiment, the light source 755 may include a light-emitting diode and / or a laser. The light-emitting diode and / or laser may be of any type and / or size suitable for inclusion in the aerosol generating apparatus 700. For example, the laser may include a solid-state laser and / or a semiconductor laser.

[0178] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 700 may include a plurality of light sources 755. The plurality of light sources 755 may be implemented as light sources of the same type. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of light sources 755 may be implemented as light sources of different types.

[0179] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of light sources 755 may be configured to irradiate a portion of the heating structure 750.

[0180] In one embodiment, the portion of the heating structure 750 illuminated by any one of the plurality of light sources 755 may be different from the portion of the heating structure 750 illuminated by another light source 755. For example, the plurality of light sources 755 may illuminate different portions of a single heating structure 750 or may illuminate multiple heating structures 750.

[0181] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 755 may be configured to illuminate substantially simultaneously. In another embodiment, the illumination time of any one of the plurality of light sources 755 may differ from the illumination time of another light source 755.

[0182] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 755 may irradiate the heating structure 750 for substantially the same duration. In another embodiment, the irradiation time of any one of the plurality of light sources 755 may differ from the irradiation time of another light source 755.

[0183] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 755 can transmit light in substantially the same wavelength band. In another embodiment, the frequency band of light irradiated by any one of the plurality of light sources 755 may be different from the frequency band of light emitted by another light source 755.

[0184] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 755 can irradiate the heating structure 750 with substantially the same illuminance. In another embodiment, the illuminance of any one of the plurality of light sources 755 can be different from the illuminance of the other light source 755.

[0185] The embodiments described herein are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Various modifications can be made to the specific content of this disclosure, including the appended claims and their equivalents. Any embodiment described herein may be used in combination with any other embodiment described herein.

Claims

1. A heating structure, wherein, The heating structure includes: substrate; Multiple metal particles disposed on the substrate and configured to generate heat through surface plasmon resonance; and A partition wall is disposed between adjacent metal particles, and the partition wall includes a plurality of columns.

2. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the plurality of metal particles is different in size from the size of another metal particle.

3. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The partition wall is arranged to prevent the adjacent metal particles from agglomerating.

4. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of metal particles have boundary portions formed by the partition walls.

5. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of metal particles have nanoscale dimensions.

6. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The partition wall protrudes from the substrate.

7. The heating structure according to claim 1, wherein, The partition wall comprises a heat-resistant material.

8. An aerosol generating apparatus, wherein, The aerosol generating device includes: Light source; and The heating structure according to claim 1 is configured to receive light from the light source.

9. A method for manufacturing a heating structure, wherein, The method includes: A partition wall is formed on one side of the substrate by depositing multiple pillars; A metal layer is formed on the surface of the substrate including the partition wall; and By annealing the metal layer, multiple metal particles of random size are formed.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Annealing the metal layer includes forming a boundary portion at the location where the partition wall is formed on the substrate.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Annealing the metal layer includes heating the metal layer at a temperature of 160°C or higher.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Annealing the metal layer includes heating the metal layer to cause dehumidification of the metal layer.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Forming the metal layer includes depositing the metal layer with a thickness of less than 10 nm or equal to 10 nm.

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