Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment includes a body including a first face, a second face opposite the first face, and a side face between the first face and the second face, and including a nozzle end disposed on the first face; the atomization area is arranged in the main body and is connected with the suction nozzle end; a storage unit which is connected to the atomization region and stores an aerosol-forming substrate; and a surface acoustic wave generation unit which is connected to the atomization region and generates a surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave generation unit comprising: a piezoelectric substrate which extends toward the atomization region; and a transducer disposed on the piezoelectric substrate, the transducer converting an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave being supplied to the atomization region, the transducer being formed in a comb shape.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Currently, research is being conducted on non-combustible cigarettes. An aerosol generating device generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article.

[0003] The above background art was mastered or learned by the inventor during the development of the present invention and should not be construed as generally known prior art that must be publicly available before the application of the present invention. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical Problem to be Solved

[0005] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of generating fine aerosols of uniform size using surface acoustic waves.

[0006] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of atomizing a high-viscosity liquid in a non-heating manner.

[0007] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of achieving a rich atomization amount of a high-viscosity liquid.

[0008] An object of one embodiment is to provide an aerosol generating device capable of visualizing the atomization of a high-viscosity liquid.

[0009] Technical Solution for Solving the Problem

[0010] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, and including a mouthpiece end disposed on the first surface; an atomization region disposed within the main body and connected to the mouthpiece end; a storage unit connected to the atomization region and storing an aerosol forming matrix; and a surface acoustic wave generating unit connected to the atomization region and generating surface acoustic waves, the surface acoustic wave generating unit including: a piezoelectric substrate extending toward the atomization region; and a transducer disposed on the piezoelectric substrate, the transducer converting an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave being provided to the atomization region, the transducer being formed in a comb shape.

[0011] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a main body, which includes a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface located between the first surface and the second surface, and includes a mouthpiece end arranged on the first surface; an atomization area, which is arranged in the main body and connected to the mouthpiece end; a storage part, which is connected to the atomization area and stores an aerosol-forming matrix; and a surface acoustic wave generating part, which is connected to the atomization area and generates surface acoustic waves, the surface acoustic wave generating part includes: a piezoelectric substrate, which extends toward the atomization area; and a transducer, which is arranged on the piezoelectric substrate, and a reflector, which is arranged on the opposite side of the atomization area across the transducer, the transducer converts an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave is provided to the atomization area, and the reflector reflects the surface acoustic wave from the transducer to the atomization area.

[0012] Effects of the Invention

[0013] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can generate fine aerosols of uniform size using surface acoustic waves.

[0014] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is capable of atomizing high-viscosity liquids in a non-heating manner.

[0015] The aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can achieve a rich atomization amount of high-viscosity liquid.

[0016] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can visualize the atomization of a high-viscosity liquid.

[0017] The effects of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment are not limited to the above-mentioned contents, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 is the surface acoustic wave generating section of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 are the transducer and reflector of the surface acoustic wave generating section of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 9 schematically shows Figure 8 the structure of the transducer. Detailed implementation mode

[0027] When selecting terms used in the embodiments, the functions of the embodiments are considered, and while general terms widely used are preferably selected as much as possible, there may be differences depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, new technologies, etc. In specific cases, the applicant may also arbitrarily select terms, but for such cases, the meaning of the terms will be described in detail in the specification. Therefore, the terms used in this specification are not simple terms and should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0028] When it is stated in the entire specification that a certain part "includes" a component, in the case where there is no special mention of a counterexample, it means that other components may also be included, and it does not mean excluding other components. In addition, terms such as "-section" and "-module" described in the specification refer to units that process at least one function or operation, and they can be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0029] In this specification, when an expression such as "at least one" appears before the listed components, it does not modify each of the listed components, but modifies the whole. For example, "at least one of a, b, and c" means the following cases: including a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; or a, b, and c.

[0030] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is the aerosol generating device 1 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Refer to Figure 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a power source 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cartridge 19. At least one of the power source 11, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18 may be disposed inside the main body 10 of the aerosol generating device. The main body 10 may provide an upwardly open space for inserting a smoking rod S as an aerosol generating article. The upwardly open space may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the main body 10 by a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the smoking rod S is inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the smoking rod S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or the medium. The lower end of the smoking rod S may be inserted into the interior of the main body 10, and the upper end may protrude outside the main body 10. A user may inhale air by holding the upper end of the outwardly exposed smoking rod S in the mouth.

[0032] The heater 18 may heat the smoking rod S. The heater 18 may extend upwardly for a relatively long distance around the space for inserting the smoking rod S. For example, the heater 18 may be a hollow tubular shape. The heater 18 may be disposed around the insertion space. The heater 18 may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater 18 may heat the insertion space or the smoking rod S inserted into the insertion space. The heater 18 may include a resistive heater and / or an inductive heater.

[0033] For example, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 may be heated when an electric current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to the power source 11. The heater 18 may receive an electric current from the power source 11 and directly generate heat.

[0034] For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 18. The induction coil causes the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18, as a susceptor, may generate heat based on the magnetic field generated by an alternating current via the induction coil. The magnetic field may penetrate the heater 18 and generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current may cause the heater 18 to generate heat.

[0035] Meanwhile, the interior of the smoking rod S may include a susceptor, and the susceptor inside the smoking rod S may generate heat based on the magnetic field generated by an alternating current via the induction coil.

[0036] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol generating substance in any state such as liquid, solid, gas, gel, etc. The aerosol generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid including a non-tobacco substance.

[0037] The cartridge 19 can be integrally formed with the main body 10 or detachably connected to the main body 10.

[0038] For example, referring to Figure 1 , the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the main body 10 and can communicate with the insertion space through the air flow channel CN.

[0039] For example, referring to Figure 2 , a space is formed on one side of the main body 10, and at least a part of the cartridge 19 is inserted into the space formed on one side of the main body 10 to fix the cartridge 19 to the main body 10. The air flow channel CN can be defined by a part of the cartridge and / or a part of the main body 10, and the cartridge 19 can communicate with the insertion space through the air flow channel CN.

[0040] The main body 10 can be formed into a structure that allows external air to flow into the interior of the main body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. At this time, the external air flowing into the main body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0041] The cartridge 19 may include a storage part C0 for accommodating the aerosol - generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol - generating substance in the storage part C0. A liquid transfer means impregnated (containing) with the aerosol - generating substance can be arranged inside the storage part C0. Here, the liquid transfer means can include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrical conduction trace of the heater 24 can be formed into a coil structure that winds around the liquid transfer means or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means. The heater 24 can be referred to as the cartridge heater 24.

[0042] The cartridge 19 is capable of generating aerosol. When the liquid transfer means is heated by the cartridge heater 24, aerosol is generated. The aerosol can be generated by heating the tobacco rod S with the heater 18. When the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and the heater 18 passes through the tobacco rod S, the aerosol can be mixed with the tobacco substance, and the aerosol mixed with the tobacco substance is inhaled through one end of the tobacco rod S via the user's mouth.

[0043] The aerosol - generating device 1 can only have the cartridge heater 24, and the main body 10 is not equipped with the heater 18. At this time, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 mixes with the tobacco substance when passing through the tobacco rod S, and then is inhaled through the user's mouth.

[0044] The aerosol - generating device 1 may include a cover (not shown). The cover is detachably connected to the main body 10 to cover at least a part of the cartridge 19 connected to the main body 10. The tobacco rod S can penetrate the cover and be inserted into the main body 10.

[0045] The power source 11 can supply the power required for the operation of the components of the aerosol generating device. The power source 11 can be referred to as a battery. The power source 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, the cartridge heater 24, and the heater 18. When the aerosol generating device 1 includes an induction coil, the power source 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0046] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least any one of the power source 11, the sensor 13, the heater 18, and the cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device. The control unit 12 can confirm the state of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in a workable state.

[0047] The control unit 12 can analyze the detection result of the sensor 13 and control the subsequent process. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 according to the detection result of the sensor 13, thereby starting and shutting down the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply amount and the power supply time supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the detection result of the sensor 13, so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a suitable temperature.

[0048] The sensor 13 can include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a lid detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 can detect at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power source 11, and the temperature inside and outside the main body 10. For example, the sensor 13 can sense a puff of the user. For example, the sensor 13 can sense whether the cigarette rod S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, the sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge is installed. For example, the sensor 13 can sense whether a lid is installed.

[0049] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Fig. 1 shows an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Referring Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device 1 can include a main body 10 and a cartridge 19. The aerosol generating device 10 can include at least one of a power source 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the power source 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 can be arranged inside the main body 10. The main body 10 can be equipped with a cartridge 19 as an aerosol generating article. The user can inhale the aerosol by holding the mouthpiece arranged at one end of the cartridge 19 with the mouth.

[0051] The internal chamber C0 of the cartridge 19 may be filled with aerosol - generating substances in any state such as liquid, solid, gaseous, gel - like, etc. The aerosol - generating substances may include liquid compositions. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco - containing substance containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or may be a liquid including a non - tobacco substance.

[0052] The cartridge 19 may be detachably connected to the main body 10. The cartridge 19 can be fixed to the main body 10 by inserting the cartridge 19 into the main body 10.

[0053] The main body 10 may be formed into a structure that allows external air to flow into the main body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. At this time, the external air flowing into the main body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth through the air flow channel CN.

[0054] The cartridge 19 may include a chamber C0 for accommodating the aerosol - generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol - generating substance in the heating chamber C0. A liquid transfer means 25 impregnated (containing) with the aerosol - generating substance may be arranged inside the chamber C0. Here, the liquid transfer means 25 may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrical conduction trace of the heater 24 may be formed into a coil structure that winds around the liquid transfer means 25 or a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means 25. The heater 24 may be referred to as a cartridge heater.

[0055] The cartridge 19 is capable of generating aerosol. When the liquid transfer means 25 is heated by the cartridge heater 24, aerosol is generated. The generated aerosol is inhaled into the user's mouth through the air flow channel CN.

[0056] The air flow channel CN may be provided in the cartridge 19. The air flow channel CN may communicate the chamber in which the cartridge heater 24 is arranged and the outside of the cartridge. One end of the air flow channel CN is open to the chamber C1 where the heater 24 is provided, and the other end communicates with the mouthpiece. For example, see Figure 3 ., the air flow channel CN may extend relatively long along the length direction of the cartridge 19 from one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19. For example, see Figure 4 ., the air flow channel CN may pass through the chamber C0 of the cartridge 10 and extend relatively long along the length direction of the cartridge 19.

[0057] The power source 11 may supply the electric power required for the operation of the components of the aerosol - generating device. The power source 11 may be referred to as a battery. The power source 11 may supply power to at least any one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the cartridge heater 24.

[0058] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit can be installed on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least any one of the power supply 11, the sensor 13, and the cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device. The control unit 12 can verify the status of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in a workable state.

[0059] The control unit 12 can analyze the detection result of the sensor 13 and control the subsequent process. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 according to the detection result of the sensor 13, thereby starting and stopping the cartridge heater 24. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply amount and the power supply time supplied to the cartridge heater 24 based on the detection result of the sensor 13, so that the cartridge heater 24 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a suitable temperature.

[0060] The sensor 13 can include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a motion detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 can sense at least one of the temperature of the cartridge heater 24, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the temperature inside and outside the main body 10. For example, the sensor 13 can sense a user's puff. For example, the sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge is installed. For example, the sensor 13 can sense the motion of the aerosol generating device.

[0061] Figure 5 is a block diagram of the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] The aerosol generating device 1 can include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 5 shown. Those skilled in the art should understand that some components shown can be omitted Figure 5 according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1 or new components can be added.

[0063] The sensor 13 can detect the status of the aerosol generating device 1 or the status around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the detected information to the control unit 12. The control unit 12 can control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform multiple functions based on the detected information, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether a tobacco rod S and / or a cartridge 19 is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0064] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131, a suction sensor 132, an insertion detection sensor 133, a reuse detection sensor 134, a cartridge detection sensor 135, a cap detection sensor 136, and a motion detection sensor 137.

[0065] The temperature sensor 131 may detect the heating temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 itself may be used as a temperature sensor.

[0066] The temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistance element whose resistance value changes in response to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The resistance element may be implemented as a thermistor, which utilizes the characteristic that the resistance changes with temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor for detecting the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. At this time, the temperature sensor 131 outputs a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0067] The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged around the power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery serving as the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of the printed circuit board.

[0068] The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged inside the main body 10 to detect the internal temperature of the main body 10.

[0069] The suction sensor 132 may detect a user's suction based on various physical changes in the air flow path. The suction sensor 132 may output a signal corresponding to the suction. For example, the suction sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The suction sensor 132 may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the air flow path for gas flow. The suction sensor 132 may be arranged corresponding to the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 1 for gas flow.

[0070] The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the tobacco rod S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect a signal change when the tobacco rod S is inserted and / or removed. The insertion detection sensor 133 can be installed around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the tobacco rod S based on a change in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0071] The inductive sensor can include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor can be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field change occurs around a coil through which an electric current flows, the characteristics of the electric current flowing through the coil change according to Faraday's law. Here, the characteristics of the electric current flowing through the coil can include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the resistance value, etc.

[0072] The inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the electric current flowing through the coil. For example, the inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0073] The capacitive sensor can include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor can be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic characteristics (such as the capacitance around the conductor). For example, when a tobacco rod S with a metal-wrapped package is inserted into the insertion space, the package of the tobacco rod S changes the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductor.

[0074] The reusable detection sensor 134 detects whether the tobacco rod S can be reused. The reusable detection sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the color of the tobacco rod S. The color sensor can detect the color of a part of the package wrapping the outer side of the tobacco rod S. The color sensor can detect an optical characteristic value corresponding to the color of an object based on the light reflected by the object. For example, the optical characteristic can be the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as one component with the proximity sensor or can be a component separate from the proximity sensor.

[0075] At least a part of the package constituting the tobacco rod S undergoes a color change due to the aerosol. The reusable detection sensor 134 can be arranged corresponding to at least a part of the package, and at least a part of the package is the position of the package that undergoes a color change due to the aerosol when the tobacco rod S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the user uses the tobacco rod S, the color of at least a part of the package can be a first color. At this time, when the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 flows through the tobacco rod S, at least a part of the package is wetted by the aerosol and changes to a second color. At the same time, the color of at least a part of the package can remain at the second color after changing from the first color to the second color.

[0076] The cartridge detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 can be implemented as an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) utilizing the Hall effect.

[0077] The lid detection sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the lid. When the lid is separated from the main body 10, the portions of the cartridge 19 and the main body 10 covered by the lid are exposed. The lid detection sensor 136 can be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0078] The motion detection sensor 137 can detect the motion of the aerosol generating device. The motion detection sensor 137 can be implemented as at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor (gyro).

[0079] In addition to the above sensors (131 to 137), the sensor 13 may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0080] The output unit 14 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. The output unit 14 may include at least one of a display unit 141, a tactile unit 142, and an audio output unit 143, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. When the display unit 141 and a touchpad are provided in a hierarchical structure to form a touch screen, in addition to an output device, the display unit 141 can also be used as an input device.

[0081] The display unit 141 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include various information such as the charge / discharge state of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating state of the heater 18, the insertion / removal state of the tobacco rod S and / or the cartridge 19, the installation / removal state of the lid, or the state where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., an abnormality is detected), etc., and the display unit 141 can output the information to the outside. For example, the display unit 141 can be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display unit 141 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0082] The haptic unit 142 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus to provide haptic information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 for a set time, the haptic unit 142 may vibrate to indicate completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0083] The sound output unit 143 may provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user through sound. For example, the sound output unit 143 may convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output it externally.

[0084] The power source 11 may supply the power required for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The power source 11 may supply power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Also, the power source 11 may supply the power required for the operation to other components in the aerosol generating device 1 (such as the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17). The power source 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but the embodiment is not limited thereto.

[0085] Although Figure 5 not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the power source 11 and may include a switching element.

[0086] The power protection circuit may cut off the power source 11 circuit according to a predetermined condition. For example, when the voltage level of the power source 11 is above a first voltage corresponding to overcharging, the power protection circuit may cut off the power source 11 circuit. For example, when the voltage level of the power source 11 is below a second voltage corresponding to overdischarging, the power protection circuit may cut off the power source 11 circuit.

[0087] The heater 18 may receive power from the power source 11 to heat the medium or aerosol generating substance in the tobacco rod S. Although Figure 5 not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (such as a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the power source 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Additionally, when the aerosol generating device 1 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a DC / AC converter to convert the direct current of the power source 11 into alternating current.

[0088] The control unit 12, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 may implement functions by receiving power from the power source 11. Although Figure 1Although not shown in the figure, it may further include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the conversion power supply 11 and supplies the power to each component. For example, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage stabilizing circuit. In addition, although Figure 5 not shown in the figure, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low pass filter. The low pass filter may include at least one inductor and capacitor. The cut-off frequency of the low pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching power supply applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low pass filter may prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensors 13 such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0089] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 may be made of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc., but the implementation is not limited thereto. Also, the heater 18 may be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having a conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but the implementation is not limited thereto.

[0090] In another embodiment, the heater 18 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat from a magnetic field applied by a coil.

[0091] The input unit 15 may receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor for detecting a touch. For example, the touch sensor includes a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc., but the implementation is not limited thereto.

[0092] The display 141 and the touch panel may be implemented as one panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display 141 (In-Cell and On-Cell). For example, the touch panel may be attached (Add-cell) to the display panel 141.

[0093] Meanwhile, the input unit 15 may include a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a roller, a microswitch, etc., but the implementation is not limited thereto.

[0094] The memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. The memory 17 is at least one storage medium among a flash memory type memory, a hard disk type memory, a multimedia card micro type memory, a card type memory (such as an SD or XD memory, etc.), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 17 may store the operating time of the aerosol generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature curve, and user smoking pattern data, etc., but the implementation is not limited thereto.

[0095] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 116 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0096] The short-range wireless communication unit includes 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 (IrDA, infrared Data Association) 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 thereto.

[0097] The wireless communication unit may include a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (such as a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc., but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0098] Although Figure 5 not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and can be connected to other external devices through the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information, or charge the power supply 11.

[0099] The control unit 12 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays, or may be implemented as a combination of a general microprocessor and a memory, and a program executable by the microprocessor is stored in the memory. It is obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains that the at least one processor may be other forms of hardware.

[0100] The control unit 12 may control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supply from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 may control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 may adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 may determine the target temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature curve stored in the memory 17.

[0101] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) for realizing an electrical connection between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, the heater 18, or the induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), etc. The control unit 12 may control the power supply circuit.

[0102] The control unit 12 may control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts the direct current output from the power supply 11 into alternating current. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0103] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power source 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element to block the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied by the power source 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0104] The control unit 12 can control the output voltage of the power source 11 by controlling the switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the output voltage of the power source 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can include a buck converter that reduces the output voltage of the power source 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented as a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0105] The control unit 12 can control the on / off operation of the switching element in the power conversion circuit to adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can correspond to the voltage level output from the power source 11. The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source 11. As the duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit decreases. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0106] The control unit 12 can use at least one of the pulse width modulation (PWM) method and the proportional-integral-differential (PID) method to control the power supply to the heater 18.

[0107] For example, the control unit 12 can use the PWM method to control the supply of current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulses.

[0108] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature as the control target based on a temperature curve. The control unit 12 uses the PID method to control the power supply to the heater 18, where the PID method is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the differential value of the difference over time.

[0109] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 reduces the power supply amount to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 by a predetermined ratio when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 exceeds the preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-forming substance in the cartridge heater 24 has been exhausted when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 exceeds the preset limit temperature, and stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24.

[0110] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can confirm the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0111] When the power cord is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 12 can verify whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a first limit temperature that is a standard for cutting off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can charge the power supply 11 based on a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can stop charging the power supply 11.

[0112] When the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1 is turned on, the control unit 12 verifies whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a second limit temperature that is a standard for preventing the discharge of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can allow the use of the stored power in the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can stop using the stored power in the power supply 11.

[0113] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the stored power in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current induction value of the power supply 11.

[0114] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cigarette rod S is inserted into the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine that the cigarette rod S has been inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. When it is determined that the cigarette rod S is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature curve stored in the memory 17.

[0115] The control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco rod S is removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco rod S is removed from the insertion space through the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, when the temperature of the heater 18 is above the limit temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater 18 is above the set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the tobacco rod S has been removed from the insertion space. When it is determined that the tobacco rod S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0116] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 according to the state of the tobacco rod S detected by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can confirm the signal level range of the capacitive sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can judge the moisture content in the tobacco rod S according to the confirmed signal level range.

[0117] When the tobacco rod S is in an over-wet state, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time to the heater 18 to extend the preheating time of the tobacco rod S compared to the normal state.

[0118] The control unit 12 can determine whether the tobacco rod S inserted into the insertion space can be reused through the reusable detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 compares the induction value of the signal from the reusable detection sensor with the first reference range of the first color, and when the induction value is included in the first reference range, it can be judged that the tobacco rod S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 compares the induction value of the signal from the reusable detection sensor with the second reference range of the second color, and when the induction value is included in the second reference range, it can be judged that the tobacco rod S has been used. When it is determined that the tobacco rod S has been used, the control unit 12 can prevent the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0119] The control unit 12 can verify whether the cartridge 19 is installed and / or removed through the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can verify whether the cartridge 19 is installed or removed based on the induction value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor.

[0120] The control unit 12 can judge whether the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 is exhausted. For example, the control unit 12 supplies power to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, and judges whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature during the preheating. When the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, it can be judged that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted, the control unit 12 can stop the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0121] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be used. For example, based on the stored data in the memory 17, when the current number of puffs is greater than the preset maximum number of puffs of the cartridge 19, the control unit 12 can deactivate the cartridge 19. For example, when the total heating duration of the heater 24 is greater than the preset maximum duration or the total power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than the preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can deactivate the cartridge 19.

[0122] The control unit 12 can determine the user's inhalation through the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensed value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensed value of the signal of the puff sensor 132. When the number of puffs reaches the preset maximum number of puffs or the duration without detecting a puff exceeds the preset duration, the control unit 12 can stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0123] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed through the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cap is attached or removed based on the sensed value of the signal from the cap detection sensor.

[0124] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches the preset number, the control unit 12 outputs a signal through at least one of the display unit 141, the tactile unit 142, and the sound output unit 143 to notify the user that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to be deactivated. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14 that there is no tobacco rod S in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14 that the cartridge 19 and / or the cap is not installed. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user of the temperature information of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 through the output unit 14.

[0125] The control unit 12 can store and update the history of the occurred event in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The events can include the events executed by the aerosol generating device 1, for example, detecting the insertion of the tobacco rod S, starting to heat the tobacco rod S, detecting puffing, stopping puffing, detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, detecting overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, stopping heating the tobacco rod S, switching the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1, etc., starting to charge the power supply 11, detecting overcharging of the power supply 11, stopping charging the power supply 11, etc. The history of the events can include the event occurrence date and time, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detecting the insertion of the tobacco rod S, the log data corresponding to this event can include the sensed value data of the insertion detection sensor 133, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, the log data corresponding to this event can include the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, the applied voltage of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, the current flowing through the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, etc.

[0126] The control unit 12 can control the communication link with an external device (such as the user's mobile terminal). When receiving authentication-related data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can lift the usage restriction on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the authentication data can include the data for completing the user authentication of the user of the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's birthday, the unique number representing the user, etc., and receive the permission data regarding the use of the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device can send the data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the usage permission data. When the user authentication is completed, the control unit 12 can lift the usage restriction on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, when the user authentication is completed, the control unit 12 can lift the usage restriction of the heating function to supply power to the heater 18.

[0127] The control unit 12 can send the status data regarding the aerosol generating device 1 to the external device via the established communication link. The external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11, the working mode, etc. of the aerosol generating device 1 through the display of the external device based on the received status data.

[0128] The external device may send a location search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input for starting the location search of the aerosol generating device 1. When receiving the location search request from the external device, the control unit 12 may cause at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 may vibrate in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output an object corresponding to the search location and stopping the search in response to the location search request.

[0129] The control unit 12 may perform a firmware update when receiving firmware data from the external device. The external device may confirm the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether there is a new version of the firmware. When the external device receives an input for requesting to download the firmware, it may receive the new version of the firmware data and send the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generating device 1. When the control unit 12 receives the new version of the firmware data, it may control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0130] The control unit 12 sends the sensed value data of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit 16, and learns the sensed values based on machine learning such as deep learning by the server and receives and stores the generated learning model. The control unit 12 may use the learning model received from the server to perform operations such as judging the user's puffing pattern and generating a temperature distribution map. The control unit 12 may store the sensed value data of at least one sensor 13 and the data for artificial neural network (ANN) learning in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database of each structure of the aerosol generating device 1 for artificial neural network (ANN) learning, the weights and biases constituting the ANN structure. The control unit 12 learns the sensed value data of at least one sensor 13, the user's puffing pattern, the temperature curve, etc. stored in the memory 17 to generate at least one learning pattern for judging the user's puffing pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0131] Figure 6 is an aerosol generating device 2 according to an embodiment, Figure 7 is a surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 of the aerosol generating device 2 according to an embodiment. Figure 8 is a transducer 282a and a reflector 283 of the surface acoustic wave generating unit 280 of the aerosol generating device 2 according to an embodiment. Figure 9 is Figure 8 a schematic diagram of the structure of the transducer.

[0132] Refer to Figure 6, according to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 2 can aerosolize the liquid stored in the storage unit 29 by using surface acoustic waves. The aerosol generating device 2 may include a main body 20, a power source 21, a control unit 22, a surface acoustic wave generating unit 28, and a storage unit 29.

[0133] In one embodiment, the main body 20 has a first surface 201, a second surface 202 opposite to the first surface 201, and a side surface 203 between the first surface 201 and the second surface 202. The main body 20 has a mouthpiece end ME on the first surface 201. The user can use the mouthpiece end ME to inhale the aerosol. For example, the mouthpiece end ME is the part in contact with the user's oral cavity, and the aerosol can be transferred to the user through the air flow channel CN via the mouthpiece end ME. As another example, the mouthpiece end ME can be an internal space (insertion space) into which an aerosol generating article (such as Figure 1 or Figure 2 the cigarette rod S) is inserted. The internal space may be recessed by a predetermined depth toward the inside of the main body 20 (for example, toward the Figure 6 -X direction in

[0134] for the aerosol generating article to be inserted. The depth of the internal space may correspond to the length of the region including the aerosol generating substance and / or medium in the aerosol generating article. The upstream of the aerosol generating article can be inserted into the main body 20, and the downstream of the aerosol generating article can be exposed outside the main body 20. The user can hold the exposed aerosol generating article in the mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0135] The power source 21 can supply the power required for the operation of the components of the aerosol generating device 2. The power source 21 can be referred to as a battery. The power source 21 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 22 and the surface acoustic wave generating unit 28.

[0136] In one embodiment, the storage unit 29 can store at least one aerosol forming matrix. For example, the aerosol forming matrix can include an aerosol generating substance in any state such as liquid, solid, gas, gel state, etc. The aerosol generating substance can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid including a tobacco-containing substance containing a volatile tobacco fragrance component, or a liquid including a non-tobacco substance.

[0137] The storage unit 29 and / or the surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 operate based on an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the control unit 22. In the storage unit 29, the aerosol-forming substrate undergoes a phase change by the surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 and is converted into a gaseous state, thereby generating an aerosol. An aerosol can refer to a gas in a mixed state of vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-forming substrate and air.

[0138] The storage unit 29 can store a functional substance used as an aerosol-forming substrate. The functional substance can be stored in the storage unit 29 in at least one of a gaseous, liquid, or solid state. For example, the functional substance can include flavors such as nicotine, glycerin, propylene glycol, and menthol, or drugs for treating respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive diseases, oils such as essential oils, caffeine, taurine, and vaccines. There can be many functional substances, and it is not limited to the above examples. In one embodiment, there can be multiple storage units 29, and the functional substances stored in the multiple storage units 29 can be the same or different. For example, when the same functional substance is stored in the multiple storage units 29, when one of the multiple storage units 29 is depleted, the remaining storage units 29 can be used as spares. When the functional substances in the multiple storage units 29 are different, any one of the multiple storage units 29 can be selected according to the user's preference to achieve aerosolization.

[0139] The storage unit 29 can be arranged adjacent to the atomization region (e.g., Figure 7 the atomization region AA) in the main body 20. The storage unit 29 can be replaceable. For example, the storage unit 29 can be detachably connected to the side surface 203. Thus, the storage unit 29 can be replaced on the side surface of the main body 20 forming the appearance of the aerosol generating device 2, providing convenience for the user.

[0140] In one embodiment, a microchannel (not shown) can also be included between the storage unit 29 and the atomization region to supply the aerosol-forming substrate in the storage unit 29 to the atomization region. The microchannel forming portion can include a microchannel inlet connected to one side of the storage unit 29 and a microchannel outlet facing the atomization region.

[0141] The microchannel forming part can actively and quantitatively supply a high-viscosity liquid (aerosol forming matrix) to the atomization region. For example, the microchannel forming part can be made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a transparent elastomer, through photolithography and soft lithography processes to form microchannels. The microchannel inlet of the microchannel forming part can be connected to the storage part 29 through a tube, and the liquid (aerosol forming matrix) can be quantitatively supplied at a desired flow rate by a pump. A microfluidic connector can be arranged between the pump and the microchannel inlet, and the microfluidic connector can prevent the tube from becoming an obstacle to liquid flow. The width and height of the microchannel outlet can be set to maintain a small liquid film thickness of the liquid (aerosol forming matrix). The main working variables for inducing atomization by surface acoustic waves are the physical properties of the liquid (such as viscosity, density, surface tension, etc.), the width and height of the liquid film, and the frequency and intensity of the applied surface acoustic wave. The width and height of the microchannel outlet can be set considering the above factors. For example, the width and height of the microchannel outlet can be set to 200 μm and 100 μm.

[0142] The surface acoustic wave generating part 28 is connected to the atomization region and can generate surface acoustic waves. This will be described in detail with reference to Figures 7 to 9 the surface acoustic wave generating part 28.

[0143] Referring to Figure 7 , the surface acoustic wave generating part 28 can include a piezoelectric substrate 281 connected to the atomization region AA and a transducer 282 arranged on the piezoelectric substrate 281.

[0144] The piezoelectric substrate 281 can include a piezoelectric material capable of converting electrical energy and mechanical energy into each other. The piezoelectric substrate 281 can form a surface for transmitting surface acoustic waves.

[0145] The transducer 282 (interdigital transducer) can be arranged on the piezoelectric substrate 281. For example, it can be deposited on the piezoelectric substrate 281. The transducer 282 can convert an electrical signal sent from the power supply 21 and / or the control part 22 into a surface acoustic wave. For example, the transducer 282 can be patterned in a finger-crossed (comb-like) pattern on the surface of the piezoelectric material through a semiconductor etching process. When an AC voltage with a working frequency corresponding to the pitch of the transducer 282 is applied to the corresponding transducer 282, surface acoustic waves transmitted along the surface of the piezoelectric substrate 281 are generated through the mechanical contraction and expansion of the piezoelectric material of the piezoelectric substrate 281. The surface acoustic waves generated by the transducer 282 form an acoustic field within the atomization region AA, thereby for the storage part provided on the atomization region AA (for example, Figure 6The aerosol-forming matrix in the storage section 29) is aerosolized. The particles of the aerosol generated based on surface acoustic waves are fine and uniform.

[0146] In one embodiment, a plurality of transducers 282 may be configured. For example, the transducer 282 may include a first transducer 282a and a second transducer 282b. The first transducer 282a and the second transducer 282b may be arranged opposite to each other across the atomization region AA. The traveling waves generated by the two transducers (the first transducer 282a and the second transducer 282b) meet to form a standing wave, whereby the amplitude of the surface acoustic wave with the same phase can be maximized. For example, when the distance between the two transducers (the first transducer 282a and the second transducer 282b) is designed to be about 65λ to 200λ, a stable surface acoustic wave can be well formed.

[0147] In one embodiment, the surface acoustic wave generating section 28 may further include a reflector 283 that reflects the surface acoustic wave from the transducer 282. The reflector 283 may be arranged on the opposite side of the atomization region AA across the transducer 282. The traveling waves in two directions (for example, Figure 7 the + / -Y directions in Figure 7 generated by the transducer 282) can be concentrated by the reflector 283 in one direction (for example,

[0148] -Y direction based on the first transducer 282a and +Y direction based on the second transducer 282b in Figure 8 ). The reflector 283 can maximize the amplitude of the utilized surface acoustic wave. The reflector 283 may be a close type reflector to effectively reflect the surface acoustic wave. Figure 9 Figure 7 Figure 7 Referring to

[0149] Referring to Figure 9, the transducer 282 may include a first electrode group 2821 and a second electrode group 2822. The transducer 282 including the first electrode group 2821 and the second electrode group 2822 may be formed in a comb shape like finger crossing. For example, the electrodes included in the transducer 282 may be designed in a comb shape with the same electrode width (λ / 4) and electrode pitch (λ / 4), thereby maximizing the energy efficiency of the surface acoustic wave generating element.

[0150] The first electrode group 2821 may include a plurality of first finger electrodes 28211 extending toward the second bus bar 28222 of the second electrode group 2822. The second electrode group 2822 may include second finger electrodes 28221 extending toward the first bus bar 28212 of the first electrode group 2821. The first finger electrodes 28211 and the second finger electrodes 28221 may be alternately arranged.

[0151] In one embodiment, the first finger electrodes 28211 and the second finger electrodes 28221 may be arranged at equal intervals (λ / 4). At least any one of the width (λ / 4) of the first finger electrodes 28211 and the width (λ / 4) of the second finger electrodes 28221 is the same as the spacing distance (λ / 4) between the first finger electrodes 28211 and the second finger electrodes 28221.

[0152] The first electrode group 2821 may further include a first bus bar 28212 connected to the first finger electrodes 28211, and a first electrode plate 28213 connected to one end of the first bus bar 28212. The second electrode group 2822 may further include a second bus bar 28222 connected to the second finger electrodes 2822, and a second electrode plate 28223 connected to one end of the second bus bar 28222. The first bus bar 28212 and the second bus bar 28222 may be parallel to each other. For example, the first bus bar 28212 may extend from the first electrode plate 28213 toward the atomization region (for example, Figure 7 the atomization region AA in Figure 7 ), and the second bus bar 28222 may extend from the second electrode plate 28223 toward the atomization region (for example

[0153] In one embodiment, the transducer 282 is made of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) / silicon dioxide (SiO 2) / The manufacturing of a five-layer metal thin film of titanium (Ti) / aluminum (Al) can maximize the energy efficiency of the generated surface acoustic wave. At this time, the silicon dioxide layer functions as an insulating layer to protect the electrodes. The deposition thickness of the electrode plate (the first electrode plate 28213 and / or the second electrode plate 28223) and / or the bus bar (the first bus bar 28212 and / or the second bus bar 28222) is thicker than the deposition thickness of the electrode (the first finger electrode 28211 and / or the second finger electrode 28221) part of the transducer 282. Thus, an electric field is formed only in the transducer 282 as much as possible.

[0154] For example, the transducer 282 can be manufactured by the following process based on a photomask. To prevent the substrate from being damaged by the high voltage required for atomizing the liquid, a cleaning process of the liquid nitrogen wafer can be performed using sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide solution on a black liquid nitrogen (Black LN) wafer with high durability. A photolithography process is performed using a negative photoresist (Negative PR) on the washed wafer. At this time, using the above-mentioned primary metal patterning photomask, the photoresist remains in areas other than the transducer area, and the photoresist in the transducer area can be removed through a develop process. Then, primary metal coating can be performed by electron beam evaporation (E-beam evaporation), and then the metal and the photoresist in areas other than the transducer can be removed through a lift off process. Then, to prevent the atomized liquid from damaging the transducer, a silicon dioxide patterning mask can be used to form an insulating layer composed of SiO 2 After forming the insulating layer, to minimize the internal resistance of the transducer, a secondary metal coating can be performed using a secondary metal patterning photomask. The overall process is the same as that of the first metal coating process, but during the secondary metal coating process, the height of the electrode plate part of the transducer can be made higher.

[0155] A heated aerosol generating device (such as a heated inhaler) needs to have a temperature condition of about 250 degrees, and the liquid inhalant used may deteriorate due to the high temperature. According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 2 can eject a high-viscosity liquid at about 100 degrees, which can prevent the matrix of the liquid aerosol from deteriorating.

[0156] According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 2 can reduce noise, achieve a rich atomization amount, and generate uniform and fine spray particles.

[0157] An aerosol generating device 2 according to an embodiment includes: a main body 20 including a first surface 201, a second surface 202 opposite to the first surface 201, and a side surface 203 between the first surface 201 and the second surface 202, and including a mouthpiece end ME disposed on the first surface 201; an atomization region AA disposed within the main body 20 and connected to the mouthpiece end ME; a storage unit 29 connected to the atomization region AA and storing an aerosol-forming substrate; and a surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 connected to the atomization region AA and generating a surface acoustic wave. The surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 includes: a piezoelectric substrate 281 extending toward the atomization region AA; and a transducer 282 disposed on the piezoelectric substrate 281. The transducer 282 converts an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave and supplies the surface acoustic wave to the atomization region AA. The transducer 282 is formed in a comb shape.

[0158] In one embodiment, the transducer 282 includes: a first electrode group 2821; a second electrode group 2822 opposite to the first electrode group 2821. The first electrode group 2821 includes a plurality of first finger electrodes 28211 extending toward the second electrode group 2822. The second electrode group 2822 includes a plurality of second finger electrodes 28221 extending toward the first electrode group 2821. The first finger electrodes 28211 and the second finger electrodes 28221 are alternately arranged.

[0159] The first electrode group 2821 further includes a first bus bar 28212 connected to the first finger electrodes 28211 and a first electrode plate 28213 connected to one end of the first bus bar 28212. The second electrode group 2822 further includes a second bus bar 28222 connected to the second finger electrodes 28221 and a second electrode plate 28233 connected to one end of the second bus bar 28222. The first bus bar 28212 and the second bus bar 28222 are parallel to each other.

[0160] The first bus bar 28212 extends from the first electrode plate 28213 toward the atomization region AA, and the second bus bar 28222 extends from the second electrode plate 28223 toward the atomization region AA.

[0161] In one embodiment, the plurality of first finger electrodes 28211 and the plurality of second finger electrodes 28221 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0162] At least one of the width of the first finger electrode 28211 and the width of the second finger electrode 28221 is the same as the interval distance between the first finger electrode 28211 and the second finger electrode 28221.

[0163] The surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 further includes a reflector 283 that reflects the surface acoustic wave from the transducer 282, and the reflector 283 is disposed on the opposite side of the atomization region AA across the transducer 282.

[0164] The transducers 282 are configured as a pair, and the atomization region AA is disposed between the pair of transducers 282.

[0165] In one embodiment, a microchannel forming unit is further included between the storage unit 29 and the atomization region AA, which supplies the aerosol forming matrix of the storage unit 29 to the atomization region AA. The microchannel forming unit includes: a microchannel inlet connected to one side of the storage unit 29; and a microchannel outlet facing the atomization region AA.

[0166] The aerosol generating device 2 according to one embodiment includes a main body 20, which includes a first surface 201, a second surface 202 opposite to the first surface 201, and a side surface 203 between the first surface 201 and the second surface 202, and includes a mouthpiece end ME disposed on the first surface 201; an atomization region AA disposed within the main body 20 and connected to the mouthpiece end ME; a storage unit 29 connected to the atomization region AA and storing an aerosol forming matrix; and a surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 connected to the atomization region AA and generating a surface acoustic wave. The surface acoustic wave generating unit 28 includes: a piezoelectric substrate 281 extending toward the atomization region AA; a transducer 282 disposed on the piezoelectric substrate 281; and a reflector 283 disposed on the opposite side of the atomization region AA across the transducer 282. The transducer 282 converts an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave, and the surface acoustic wave is provided to the atomization region AA. The reflector 283 reflects the surface acoustic wave from the transducer 282 to the atomization region AA.

[0167] In one embodiment, the transducers 282 are a pair, and the atomization region AA is disposed between the pair of transducers 282.

[0168] The transducer 282 and the reflector 283 are separated from each other.

[0169] The spacing distance between the transducer 282 and the reflector 283 corresponds to the widths of the finger electrodes 28211 and 28221 of the transducer 282.

[0170] The description of the above embodiments is only illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that there can be various modifications and other equivalent embodiments. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the equivalent scope of the claims should be construed as being included in the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, comprising: a main body including a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface located between the first surface and the second surface, and including a mouthpiece end disposed on the first surface, an atomization region disposed within the main body and connected to the mouthpiece end, a storage portion connected to the atomization region and storing an aerosol-forming substrate, and a surface acoustic wave generating portion connected to the atomization region and generating surface acoustic waves; The surface acoustic wave generating portion includes: a piezoelectric substrate extending towards the atomization region, and a transducer disposed on the piezoelectric substrate; The transducer converts an electrical signal into surface acoustic waves, and the surface acoustic waves are provided to the atomization region, and the transducer is formed in a comb shape.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transducer includes: a first electrode group, a second electrode group opposite to the first electrode group; The first electrode group includes a plurality of first finger electrodes extending towards the second electrode group, The second electrode group includes a plurality of second finger electrodes extending towards the first electrode group, The first finger electrodes and the second finger electrodes are alternately arranged.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first electrode group further includes a first bus bar connected to the first finger electrodes and a first electrode plate connected to one end of the first bus bar, The second electrode group further includes a second bus bar connected to the second finger electrodes and a second electrode plate connected to one end of the second bus bar, The first bus bar and the second bus bar are parallel to each other.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first bus bar extends from the first electrode plate towards the atomization region, The second bus bar extends from the second electrode plate towards the atomization region.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of first finger electrodes and the plurality of second finger electrodes are arranged at equal intervals.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, characterized in that, At least one of the width of the first finger electrodes and the width of the second finger electrodes is the same as the spacing distance between the first finger electrodes and the second finger electrodes.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface acoustic wave generating portion further includes a reflector that reflects the surface acoustic waves from the transducer, The reflector is disposed on the opposite side of the atomization region across the transducer.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The transducer is a pair, The atomization region is disposed between the pair of transducers.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A microchannel forming portion is further included between the storage portion and the atomization region, and the microchannel forming portion supplies the aerosol-forming substrate in the storage portion to the atomization region, The microchannel forming portion includes: a microchannel inlet connected to one side of the storage portion; and The microchannel outlet faces the atomization region.

10. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, it comprises: a main body including a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface between the first surface and the second surface, and including a mouthpiece end arranged on the first surface, an atomization region arranged within the main body and connected to the mouthpiece end, a storage part connected to the atomization region and storing an aerosol-forming substrate, and a surface acoustic wave generating part connected to the atomization region and generating surface acoustic waves; The surface acoustic wave generating part includes: a piezoelectric substrate extending towards the atomization region, a transducer arranged on the piezoelectric substrate, and a reflector arranged on the opposite side of the atomization region with the transducer therebetween; The transducer converts an electrical signal into a surface acoustic wave, the surface acoustic wave is provided to the atomization region, and the reflector reflects the surface acoustic wave from the transducer to the atomization region.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that, the transducer is a pair, and the atomization region is arranged between the pair of transducers.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that, the transducer and the reflector are separated from each other.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, characterized in that, the spacing distance between the transducer and the reflector corresponds to the width of the finger electrodes of the transducer.

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