Heater assembly for aerosol-generating device and aerosol-generating device comprising same

Abstract

A heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment comprises: a main body forming an accommodation space in which an aerosol-generating article is accommodated; a first cover coupled to the main body and having an article insertion part into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted; a support unit disposed on the inside of the main body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space; and a heater, which is disposed between the inner surface and the outer surface of the support unit, and which heats the aerosol-generating article by applying a magnetic field to a base disposed in the accommodation space, the heater is configured to completely overlap the support unit in a second direction traversing a first direction in which the support unit extends.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] An embodiment relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device that achieves miniaturization and improves heating efficiency, and an aerosol generating device including the same. Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for technologies to replace the method of burning ordinary cigarettes to supply aerosols. For example, ongoing research includes methods such as generating aerosols from aerosol generating substances in a liquid state or a solid state, or generating gas from a liquid-state aerosol generating substance and then passing the generated gas through a solid-state flavor medium to supply flavored aerosols.

[0003] An example of an aerosol generating device may include an induction heating type aerosol generating device that generates a magnetic field to heat a base in order to heat an aerosol generating substance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An induction heating type aerosol generating device may include a heater that generates a magnetic field to heat a base and a bobbin for supporting the heater.

[0006] Generally, the heater may be wound along the outer side surface of the bobbin. That is, a space for winding the heater should be ensured in advance on the outer side of the bobbin, so other components of the aerosol generating device (e.g., heat insulating material) cannot be arranged on the outer side of the bobbin. As a result, since the heater is arranged in the area on the outer side of the bobbin, a separate space needs to be ensured to arrange other components of the aerosol generating device, so the overall size of the aerosol generating device may become larger.

[0007] In addition, when a base is arranged inside the bobbin, since the heater is wound around the outer side of the bobbin, the distance between the heater and the base generally increases. As a result, the base is arranged at a position far from the magnetic field area generated by the heater, so the heating efficiency of the base may be reduced.

[0008] The present disclosure aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device that achieve miniaturization by reducing the area occupied by the heater in the aerosol generating device.

[0009] In addition, the present disclosure aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device that can improve the heating efficiency of the base by reducing the distance between the heater and the base.

[0010] The problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to the above problems, and the problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments belong from the present specification and the drawings.

[0011] Means for solving the problems

[0012] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may include: a body configured to form an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article; a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insertion portion into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover to surround the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space; and a heater disposed between an inner surface and an outer surface of the support unit to apply a magnetic field to a base disposed in the accommodation space to heat the aerosol generating article. The heater may be configured to completely overlap with the support unit in a second direction of a first direction extending across the support unit.

[0013] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may include: a body configured to form an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article; a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insertion portion into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover to surround the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space; and a heater protruding from an inner surface of the support unit toward the accommodation space and applying a magnetic field to a base disposed in the accommodation space to heat the aerosol generating article.

[0014] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include: a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device; a battery configured to supply power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device; and a control unit configured to control an operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

[0015] Advantages of the invention

[0016] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can be miniaturized and improve the heating efficiency of the base.

[0017] The effects according to the technical idea of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description. Description of the drawings

[0018] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article inserted therein according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 Front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 Rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 Is Figure 2 Exploded perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment as shown.

[0022] Figure 5 For illustrating an example of the configuration of the heater, a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line A - A' of.

[0023] Figure 6 For illustrating another example of the configuration of the heater, a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line A - A'.

[0024] Figure 7 For illustrating an example of the structure of the heater, a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line A - A'.

[0025] Figure 8 For illustrating an example of the heating method of the heater, a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line A - A'.

[0026] Figure 9 For illustrating another example of the heating method of the heater, a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line A - A'.

[0027] Figure 10 Cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 2 the line B - B'.

[0028] Figure 11 Combined perspective view of a retainer, a first cover, a support unit, and a heater in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 12It is an assembled perspective view of a support unit, a heater, an antenna, and a sensing unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 13 It is an assembled perspective view of a first cover and an antenna in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 14 It is an assembled perspective view of an antenna, a sensing unit, and a shielding unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 15 It is an assembled perspective view of a support unit, a heater, an antenna, a sensing unit, and a sealing unit, where the sealing unit is combined with a second cover, for illustrative purposes.

[0033] Figure 16 It is an exploded perspective view of a second cover and a sealing unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 17 It shows Figure 16 a second cover.

[0035] Figure 18a It shows Figure 16 a first sealing member, Figure 18b It shows Figure 16 a second sealing member.

[0036] Figure 19 It is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, cut along the C-C’ line of Figure 15 .

[0037] Figure 20 and Figure 21 It is a view showing an example of an aerosol generating article according to an embodiment. Detailed Description

[0038] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include: a body configured to form a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article; a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insertion portion into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover to surround the aerosol generating article received in the receiving space; and a heater disposed between an inner surface and an outer surface of the support unit to apply a magnetic field to a base disposed in the receiving space to heat the aerosol generating article. The heater may be configured to completely overlap the support unit in a second direction of a first direction extending across the support unit.

[0039] The support unit and the heater may be formed by insert injection molding.

[0040] When the heater is cut with respect to a plane including the first direction extending through the support unit and the second direction crossing the first direction, the heater may have a cross section extending in the first direction.

[0041] The frequency of the magnetic field applied to the base may be 5 MHz or more.

[0042] The spacing between adjacent portions of the heater disposed on the first side of the support unit may be different from the spacing between adjacent portions of the heater disposed on the second side of the support unit.

[0043] The heater may include a first heater and a second heater disposed on different portions of the support unit.

[0044] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may further include: a sensing unit supported by the support unit inside the main body and sensing the temperature of at least any one of the support unit and the heater.

[0045] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may further include: a sensing connection unit disposed at a portion where the support unit and the sensing unit are connected and having a metallic material.

[0046] The first cover may further include: a cover heat insulation member extending along the extending direction of the heater and disposed between the heater and the main body.

[0047] When the first cover is coupled to the main body, the cover heat insulation member may be inserted inside the main body to surround a part of the outside of the heater.

[0048] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may further include: an antenna disposed inside the main body so as to surround at least a part of the outside of the heater and identifying whether an aerosol generating article is accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0049] According to an embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may further include: a shielding unit disposed between the antenna and the main body so as to surround at least a part of the outside of the antenna.

[0050] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may further include: a second cover coupled to the main body and forming the accommodation space together with the main body and the first cover; and a sealing part inserted into a through hole formed in the second cover to seal the through hole.

[0051] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include: a main body for forming an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article; a first cover coupled to the main body and having an article insertion part into which the aerosol generating article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the main body and the first cover to surround the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space; and a heater protruding from an inner surface of the support unit toward the accommodation space and applying a magnetic field to a base disposed in the accommodation space to heat the aerosol generating article.

[0052] An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include: a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device; a battery for supplying power to the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device.

[0053] The terms used in the embodiments are considered in view of the functions in the present invention and have been selected as general terms widely used currently as much as possible, but this may vary depending on the intention or precedent of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant in specific cases, and in such cases, the meaning thereof will be described in detail in the description part of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely for referring to the names of the terms, but should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the entire content of the present invention.

[0054] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, this means that unless there is a particularly contrary description, other components may also be included, rather than excluding other components. Additionally, terms such as "- part" and "- module" described in the specification refer to units that process at least one function or action, and they may be embodied as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0055] As used in this specification, when an expression such as "at least one" is placed before a list of components, its object of modification is the entire list of components rather than each of the listed components. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a or including b or including c or including a and b or including a and c or including b and c or including a, b, and c.

[0056] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette accommodated in an internal space.

[0057] The aerosol generating device may include a heater. In one embodiment, the heater may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater may include a conductive track, and the heater can be heated when an electric current flows through the conductive track.

[0058] The heater may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette according to the shape of the heating element.

[0059] The cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, may be made of a strand, or may be made of cut tobacco formed by cutting tobacco leaves into shreds. In addition, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat-conductive material. For example, the heat-conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0060] The filter rod may be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may be composed of more than one segment. For example, the filter rod may include: a first segment for cooling the aerosol; and a second segment for filtering a specified component included in the aerosol.

[0061] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by using a cartridge that accommodates an aerosol generating substance.

[0062] The aerosol generating device may include a cartridge that accommodates an aerosol generating substance and a body that supports the cartridge. The cartridge can be detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be integrally formed or assembled with the body, or may be fixed so as not to be disassembled by the user. The cartridge may be installed in the body in a state where an aerosol generating substance is accommodated therein. However, it is not limited thereto, and an aerosol generating substance may also be injected into the cartridge in a state where the cartridge is coupled to the body.

[0063] The cartridge may accommodate an aerosol generating substance in any one of various states such as a liquid state, a solid state, a gas state, a gel state, etc. The aerosol generating substance may contain a liquid phase composition. For example, the liquid phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance having a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0064] The cartridge may operate by an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the body, etc., to convert the phase of the aerosol generating substance inside the cartridge into a gas phase, thereby performing the function of generating aerosol. The aerosol may refer to a gas in a mixed state of vaporized particles generated from the aerosol generating substance and air.

[0065] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid-phase composition, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to a user through a cigarette. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid-phase composition may move along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device, and the airflow passage may be configured to allow the aerosol to pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0066] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating substance using an ultrasonic vibration method. At this time, the ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of atomizing the aerosol generating substance by ultrasonic vibration generated by an oscillator to generate an aerosol.

[0067] The aerosol generating device may include an oscillator, and short-period vibrations may be generated by the oscillator to atomize the aerosol generating substance. The vibrations generated from the oscillator may be ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibrations may be from about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] The aerosol generating device may further include a core that absorbs the aerosol generating substance. For example, the core may be configured to surround at least one region of the oscillator, or may be configured to contact at least one region of the oscillator.

[0069] When a voltage (e.g., an alternating voltage) is applied to the oscillator, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations may be generated from the oscillator, and the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations generated from the oscillator may be transferred to the aerosol generating substance absorbed by the core. The aerosol generating substance absorbed into the core may be transformed into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transferred from the oscillator, and as a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0070] For example, the viscosity of the aerosol generating substance absorbed into the core may be reduced by the heat generated by the oscillator, and the aerosol generating substance with a lower viscosity may be turned into fine particles by the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the oscillator, thereby generating an aerosol, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating article accommodated in the aerosol generating device by induction heating.

[0072] An aerosol generating device may include a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil may apply a magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied to the coil from the aerosol generating device, a magnetic field may be formed inside the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be a magnetic body that generates heat through an external magnetic field. The susceptor is located inside the coil and generates heat when the magnetic field is applied to the susceptor, thereby heating the aerosol generating article. Additionally, optionally, the susceptor may be located within the aerosol generating article.

[0073] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further include a cradle.

[0074] The aerosol generating device may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may charge the battery of the aerosol generating device. Or, the heater may be heated in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating device are combined.

[0075] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those of ordinary skill in the art can easily implement them. The present disclosure may be implemented in a form that can be achieved in the aerosol generating devices of the various embodiments described above or may be implemented and implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0076] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0077] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article inserted therein according to an embodiment.

[0078] Reference Figure 1 , an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may include a heater assembly 10, a battery 20, a control unit 30, and a vaporizer 40. However, the components of the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited thereto, and at least one of the components (e.g., the vaporizer 40) may be omitted according to the embodiment or other components may be added.

[0079] An aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may heat an aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1 by induction heating to generate an aerosol. The induction heating method may refer to a method of generating heat in a magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field that periodically changes direction to a magnetic body that generates heat through an external magnetic field.

[0080] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic body, energy loss may occur in the magnetic body due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released from the magnetic body as heat energy. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic body, the more heat energy can be released from the magnetic body. The aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment can release heat energy from the magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetic body, and can transfer the heat energy released from the magnetic body to the aerosol generating article.

[0081] The magnetic body that generates heat through an external magnetic field can be a susceptor. The susceptor can be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 in the form of a block, a sheet, a strip, or the like.

[0082] According to an embodiment, the susceptor can be disposed inside the heater assembly 10 and can be configured to surround the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the accommodation space. In this case, the susceptor can be formed in an overall hollow cylindrical shape, however, the shape is not limited thereto.

[0083] According to another embodiment, the susceptor can also be disposed inside the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0084] At least a part of the susceptor can be formed of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the susceptor can include a metal or carbon. The susceptor can include at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). In addition, the susceptor can also include at least one of ceramics such as graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, nickel alloy, metal film, zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0085] An aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment can accommodate an aerosol generating article 2. A space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2 can be formed in the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment. Among them, a heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be disposed in the space of the aerosol generating device 1 for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the heater assembly 10 can include a cylindrical accommodating space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2 inside it. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating article 2 can be accommodated in the accommodating space of the heater assembly 10. A detailed description of the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment will be given later.

[0086] Inside the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment, components for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be disposed. For example, a heater assembly 10, a battery 20, and a control unit 30 can be disposed inside the aerosol generating device 1. However, the heater assembly 10, the battery 20, and the control unit 30 are only examples of the components disposed inside the aerosol generating device 1. In addition to the above components, other components (for example, a user interface, a sensor, etc.) can also be disposed inside the aerosol generating device 1.

[0087] The heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can surround at least a part of the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can surround the tobacco medium in the aerosol generating article 2. Thereby, heat can be more effectively transferred from the heater assembly 10 to the tobacco medium.

[0088] The heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can heat the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1. As described above, the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can heat the aerosol generating article 2 by induction heating. According to an embodiment, the heater assembly 10 can heat the base by applying an alternating magnetic field to the base provided in the aerosol generating article 2.

[0089] The battery 20 can supply power to the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 20 can supply power to the coil of the heater assembly 10. As another example, the battery can also supply the power required for the operation of other components (for example, the control unit 30, etc.) of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0090] The battery 20 may include a battery cell that supplies direct current to the coil of the heater assembly 10, and a conversion unit that converts the direct current supplied by the battery cell into alternating current supplied to the coil of the heater assembly 10.

[0091] The battery cell may supply direct current to the aerosol generating device 1. The battery cell is a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery, but is not limited thereto. For example, the battery cell may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a lithium polymer battery (LiPoly).

[0092] The conversion unit may include a low-pass filter that filters the direct current supplied by the battery and outputs alternating current supplied to the heater assembly 10. The conversion unit may also include an amplifier that amplifies the direct current supplied by the battery cell. For example, the conversion unit may be implemented by a low-pass filter that constitutes a load network of a class-D amplifier.

[0093] The control unit 30 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 30 may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable by the microprocessor is stored, but is not limited thereto.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the control unit 30 may control the power supplied to the heater assembly 10. Among them, the control object of the control unit 30 may be the coil of the heater assembly 10. The control unit 30 may control the battery 20 to adjust the power supplied to the coil of the heater assembly 10. For example, the control unit 30 may control to keep the temperature of the coil for heating the aerosol generating article 2 constant based on the temperature of the coil of the heater assembly 10.

[0095] The aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may further include a vaporizer 40.

[0096] The vaporizer 40 may generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance in a liquid state, and the generated aerosol may be transmitted to the user through the aerosol generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 may move along the air flow channel of the aerosol generating device 1, and the air flow channel may be configured to transmit the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 to the user through the aerosol generating article 2.

[0097] For example, the vaporizer 40 may include a storage unit for storing an aerosol generating substance in a liquid state, a liquid transfer device, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the storage unit, the liquid transfer device, and the heating element may also be provided as independent modules in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0098] The storage unit can store the aerosol - forming substance in a liquid state. For example, the aerosol - forming substance in a liquid state can be a liquid containing a tobacco - containing substance with a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non - tobacco substance. The storage unit can be made to be detachable from or installable onto the vaporizer 40, or can be integrally made with the vaporizer 40.

[0099] For example, the aerosol - forming substance can include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, spices, flavorants, or a vitamin mixture. The spices can include menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavor components, etc., but are not limited thereto. The flavorants can include components that can provide various scents or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture can be mixed with at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the aerosol - forming substance can include aerosol - forming agents such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0100] The liquid delivery device can deliver the aerosol - forming substance in the storage unit to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery device can be a wick such as a cotton fiber wick, a ceramic fiber wick, a glass fiber wick, a porous ceramic wick, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0101] The heating element is an element for heating the aerosol - forming substance delivered through the liquid delivery device. For example, the heating element can be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, the heating element can be composed of a conductive wire such as a nichrome wire and can be configured in a structure that wraps around the liquid delivery device. The heating element can be heated by current supply and transfer heat to the aerosol - forming substance in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the aerosol - forming substance. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0102] For example, the vaporizer 40 can be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] When the aerosol - generating device 1 according to an embodiment further includes a vaporizer 40, the battery 20 can supply power to heat the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40, and the control unit 30 can control the power supplied to the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40.

[0104] When the aerosol - generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol - generating device 1 according to an embodiment, the aerosol - generating device 1 can generate an aerosol from the aerosol - generating article 2 and / or the vaporizer 40 by operating the heater assembly 10 and / or the vaporizer 40. The aerosol generated by the heater assembly 10 and / or the vaporizer 40 can be delivered to the user through the aerosol - generating article 2.

[0105] Figure 2 It is a front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0106] Reference Figure 2 , a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a first cover 200, and a second cover 300.

[0107] An accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article 2 may be formed in the inner space of the main body 100. Among them, a heater may be disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100 for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. That is, the inner space of the main body 100 may be a space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2 and may be used to form a magnetic field to heat the aerosol generating article 2. When the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100, the heater may be configured to surround the aerosol generating article 2.

[0108] The main body 100 may function as the main body of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, and the main body 100 may be combined with the first cover 200 and the second cover 300. The first cover 200 and the second cover 300 may be combined with the main body 100 to support on the main body 100. The main body 100 may be formed in an overall hollow cylindrical shape, however, the shape is not limited thereto.

[0109] The holder 150 is disposed on one side of the main body 100 (for example, the +z direction), and may function to support the aerosol generating article 2 accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100. An insertion hole 150a into which the aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted may be formed in the holder 150, and the insertion hole 150a may communicate with the accommodation space of the main body 100. The aerosol generating article 2 may be accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100 through the insertion hole 150a.

[0110] The holder 150 may include a ridge portion 150b for supporting the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. The ridge portion 150b may protrude toward the insertion hole 150a and may contact the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. In one embodiment, a plurality of ridge portions 150b may be disposed at intervals in the circumferential direction of the insertion hole 150a.

[0111] The holder 150 may be combined with the main body 100 by being combined with the first cover 200. The holder 150 may include a holder protrusion 150c protruding toward the first cover 200. When the holder protrusion 150c is inserted into the first cover 200, the holder 150 may be combined with the first cover 200. One holder protrusion 150c may be provided on each side with the insertion hole 150a as a reference.

[0112] The first cover 200 can be disposed on one side of the main body 100 (e.g., the +z direction). The first cover 200 can cover one side of the accommodation space of the main body 100 by being coupled to one side of the main body 100.

[0113] The second cover 300 can be disposed on the other side of the main body 100 (e.g., the -z direction). The second cover 300 can cover the other side of the accommodation space of the main body 100 by being coupled to the other side of the main body 100.

[0114] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0115] Reference Figure 3 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a first cover 200, and a second cover 300. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figure 2 The repeated description will be omitted hereinafter.

[0116] The second cover 300 may include a second cover body 310, a second cover protruding member 320, a through hole 330, and a sealing insertion groove 340. However, the components of the second cover 300 are not limited thereto, and at least one of the components (e.g., the sealing insertion groove 340) may be omitted according to an embodiment or other components may be added.

[0117] The second cover body 310 may function as the body of the second cover 300 and may be configured to surround at least a part of the main body 100. The second cover body 310 may include a protrusion protruding toward the main body 100, and the main body 100 may include an insertion part for inserting the protrusion of the second cover body 310. When the protrusion of the second cover body 310 is inserted into the insertion part of the main body 100, the second cover 300 may be coupled to the main body 100. However, the coupling manner between the second cover 300 and the main body 100 is not limited thereto.

[0118] The second cover protruding member 320 may protrude from the second cover body 310 toward one side (e.g., the -z direction). The sealing part to be described later may be coupled to the second cover protruding member 320 in an inserted or fitted manner. However, the coupling manner between the second cover protruding member 320 and the sealing part is not limited thereto.

[0119] At least a part of a sealing part, which will be described later, is inserted into the through hole 330, and a wire for supplying power to the heater 500 may also pass through the through hole 330. When at least a part of the sealing part is inserted into the through hole 330, one side (e.g., -z direction) of the second cover 300 may be sealed. The through hole 330 may be formed through the second cover body 310 and the second cover protruding member 320.

[0120] At least a part of the sealing part, which will be described later, may be inserted into the sealing insertion groove 340. When at least a part of the sealing part is inserted into the sealing insertion groove 340, the second cover 300 and the sealing part may be combined. The sealing insertion groove 340 may be formed in the second cover protruding member 320. In one embodiment, the sealing insertion groove 340 may be formed one on each side of the second cover protruding member 320.

[0121] Figure 4 is Figure 2 The exploded perspective view of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment as shown. Figure 4 The heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400 is shown in dashed lines.

[0122] Reference Figure 4 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a first sealing ring 160, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing part 900.

[0123] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 2 and Figure 3 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device as shown (e.g., the main body 100, the holder 150, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300), and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0124] On the other hand, the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment are not limited thereto, and at least one of the components according to the embodiment (e.g., the first sealing ring 160) may be omitted or other components (e.g., a base) may be added.

[0125] The first sealing ring 160 can be disposed between the holder 150 and the first lid 200. The first sealing ring 160 is disposed between the holder 150 and the first lid 200 so that the function of sealing between the holder 150 and the first lid 200 can be performed. The first sealing ring 160 can be formed in an integral circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0126] The second sealing ring 170 can be disposed on the first lid 200. The second sealing ring 170 is located in the article insertion portion formed in the first lid 200, and can be configured to surround the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the article insertion portion. That is, the second sealing ring 170 can perform the function of sealing between the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the article insertion portion and the first lid 200. The second sealing ring 170 can be formed in an integral circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0127] The third sealing ring 180 can be located on the lower side (e.g., the -z direction) of the aerosol-generating article 2 accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100 inside the support unit 400. The third sealing ring 180 can perform the function of sealing the inner space of the support unit 400. The third sealing ring 180 can be formed in an integral circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] Each of the third sealing ring 180, the second sealing ring 170, and the first sealing ring 160 can include a rubber material.

[0129] The support unit 400 is disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100 so that the function of supporting the heater 500 can be performed. When the aerosol-generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100, the support unit 400 can be configured to surround the aerosol-generating article 2. The support unit 400 can be referred to as a bobbin, and can be formed in an integral hollow cylindrical shape, but its shape is not limited thereto as long as it can support the heater 500.

[0130] The heater 500 is disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100, and can heat the aerosol-generating article 2 accommodated in the accommodation space. When the aerosol-generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100, the heater 500 can be configured to surround the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0131] The heater 500 can be a coil that applies an alternating magnetic field to the base. When electric power is supplied from the battery to the coil, a magnetic field can be formed inside the coil. When an alternating current is applied to the coil, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil can continuously change. When the base is located inside the coil to be exposed to the alternating magnetic field whose direction periodically changes, the base can generate heat, and can heat the aerosol-generating article 2 accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100.

[0132] For example, the coil can generate an alternating magnetic field to heat the base disposed within the aerosol-generating article 2. The base heated by the heater 500 heats the aerosol-generating article 2, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0133] The heater 500 can extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating device 1 (e.g., the z-axis direction). For example, the heater 500 can extend a length corresponding to the length of the support unit 400, or can extend a length shorter than the length of the support unit 400.

[0134] The heater 500 can be disposed at a position suitable for applying an alternating magnetic field to the base. For example, the heater 500 can be disposed on the support unit 400 so as to be located at a position corresponding to the base. The efficiency of applying the alternating magnetic field of the heater 500 to the base can be improved by the size and configuration of such a heater 500.

[0135] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field formed by the heater 500 changes, the degree to which the heater 500 heats the aerosol-generating article 2 can also change. Since the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field generated by the heater 500 can be changed according to the electric power applied to the heater 500, the aerosol-generating device 1 can control the heating of the aerosol-generating article 2 by adjusting the electric power applied to the heater 500. For example, the aerosol-generating device 1 can control the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the heater 500.

[0136] As an example, the heater 500 can be implemented as a solenoid. The heater 500 can be a solenoid wound along the extending direction of the support unit 400, and the base and the aerosol-generating article 2 can be located in the inner space of the solenoid. The material of the wire constituting the solenoid can be copper (Cu). However, not limited thereto, the material of the wire constituting the solenoid can be any one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or an alloy containing at least one of them.

[0137] According to an embodiment, the heater 500 can be disposed inside the support unit 400. That is, the heater 500 can be disposed inside the support unit 400 and integrally formed with the support unit 400. For example, the heater 500 and the support unit 400 can be made by insert injection molding. Thus, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment, the heater 500 and the support unit 400 can be manufactured together by a simple manufacturing method called insert injection molding. Therefore, the production performance of the heater assembly 10 can be improved.

[0138] The insert injection molding process refers to a process of injecting resin into a mold in a state where a separate material such as metal is previously inserted into the mold. Through the injection molding process, products in the form of a combination of metal and resin (e.g., thermoplastic) can be manufactured. For example, when the heater 500 contains metal and the support unit 400 contains resin, the heater 500 made of a metal material can be disposed in the mold, and then resin can be injected into the mold, so that the support unit 400 and the heater 500 can be manufactured together.

[0139] The antenna 600 can be disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100 to identify whether the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100. The information sensed by the antenna 600 can be transmitted to the control unit or the memory of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0140] As an example, the aerosol generating article 2 may include a metallic substance such as aluminum, and the antenna 600 may include an inductive sensor for sensing an inductance change that occurs when the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the main body 100.

[0141] As another example, the antenna 600 may include a capacitance sensor or a magnetic proximity sensor that can sense a change in electromagnetic characteristics caused by the aerosol generating article 2 adjacent to the accommodation space of the main body 100. However, it is not limited thereto, and the antenna 600 may also include other types of sensors such as an optical sensor, a temperature sensor, and a resistance sensor.

[0142] The sensing unit 700 is disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100 and can sense the temperature inside the accommodation space of the main body 100. In one embodiment, the sensing unit 700 can sense the temperature of at least one of the heater 500 or the base. The information sensed by the sensing unit 700 can be transmitted to the control unit or the memory of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0143] The sensing unit 700 may be a thermocouple wire, but it can be used without limitation as long as it can sense the temperature inside the accommodation space.

[0144] The shielding unit 800 can be disposed in the accommodation space of the main body 100 and is configured to surround the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The shielding unit 800 can be formed in an overall hollow cylindrical shape, but the shape is not limited thereto.

[0145] The sealing part 900 can be combined with the second cover 300 to perform the function of sealing one side (e.g., the -z direction) of the second cover 300. The sealing part 900 can include a first sealing member 910 and a second sealing member 920, and specific descriptions thereof will be provided later.

[0146] Figure 5 For an example of explaining the configuration of the heater, a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, cut along the Figure 2 A-A' line is shown.

[0147] Refer to Figure 5 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing part 900.

[0148] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 4 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0149] On the other hand, the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment are not limited thereto, and at least one of the components according to the embodiment (e.g., the first sealing ring 160) may be omitted or other components may be added.

[0150] The main body 100 may be disposed on the outermost side among the components of the heater assembly 10 (e.g., the support unit 400, the heater 500, the antenna 600, the sensing unit 700, and the shielding unit 800). That is, the support unit 400, the heater 500, the antenna 600, the sensing unit 700, and the shielding unit 800 may be disposed inside the main body 100. The main body 100 may include materials such as stainless steel (Steel Use Stainless, SUS) and aluminum.

[0151] When the upper part (e.g., the part facing the +z direction) of the main body 100 is combined with the first cover 200, and the lower part (e.g., the part facing the -z direction) of the main body 100 is combined with the second cover 300, an accommodation space 10a for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2 may be formed inside the main body 100.

[0152] The aerosol generating article 2 and the base can be disposed in the accommodation space 10a. In one embodiment, when the heater assembly 10 includes a base, the aerosol generating article 2 can be received inside the base and heated by the base. In another embodiment, when the base is disposed inside the aerosol generating article 2, the heater 500 is located at a position corresponding to the base and applies a magnetic field to the base, so that the base can generate heat.

[0153] When the base is disposed inside the aerosol generating article 2, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment does not include a separate base, so that the space for providing the base can be omitted, and other components can be disposed in the omitted space. Thus, the space utilization rate of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can be improved.

[0154] Although not shown, a material that reflects the heat generated in the heater 500 and / or the base to the accommodation space 10a can be deposited on at least a part of the inner surface of at least one of the main body 100, the first lid 200, and the second lid 300. Thus, the possibility that the heat generated in the heater 500 and / or the base is immediately released to the outside of the heater assembly 10 is reduced, so that the heat insulation performance of the heater assembly 10 can be improved. For example, the material deposited on the inner surface of at least one of the main body 100, the first lid 200, and the second lid 300 can include a metallic material such as silver (Ag).

[0155] The holder 150 can be coupled to the upper portion of the first lid 200 (e.g., the portion facing the +z direction). The aerosol generating article 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a of the holder 150 can pass through the article insertion portion 240 formed in the first lid 200 and be received in the accommodation space 10a. The article insertion portion 240 can be formed to penetrate the upper surface and the lower surface of the first lid 200, and can be connected to the insertion hole 150a of the holder 150 and the accommodation space 10a, respectively.

[0156] When the holder protrusion 150c of the holder 150 is inserted into the holder insertion portion 250 formed in the first lid 200, the holder 150 can be coupled to the first lid 200. The holder insertion portion 250 can be formed by the following operation: the upper surface of the first lid 200 is processed into a groove with a depth reaching a predetermined depth.

[0157] The first cover 200 can be coupled to one side of the main body 100 (e.g., the +z direction). When one side of the main body 100 is inserted into the first main body insertion part 260 formed in the first cover 200, the first cover 200 can be coupled to the main body 100, and one side of the accommodation space 10a can be covered by the first cover 200. The first main body insertion part 260 can be formed by the following operation: the lower surface of the first cover 200 is processed into a groove with a depth reaching a position with a specified depth.

[0158] The first cover 200 can include a first cover body 210 and a cover heat insulation member 220.

[0159] The first cover body 210 can function as the body of the first cover 200. An article insertion part 240 is formed inside the first cover body 210. Thus, the aerosol generating article 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a can pass through the first cover body 210 and be accommodated in the accommodation space 10a. The holder insertion part 250 and the first main body insertion part 260 can be formed at positions spaced apart from each other on the first cover body 210.

[0160] The cover heat insulation member 220 can extend from the first cover body 210 in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) and can be disposed outside the heater 500 provided on the support unit 400. Thus, the cover heat insulation member 220 can function as a physical barrier to prevent the heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment uses a double physical barrier formed by the main body 100 and the cover heat insulation member 220 to improve the heat insulation performance.

[0161] In one embodiment, the cover heat insulation member 220 can be integrally formed with the first cover body 210.

[0162] The second cover 300 can be coupled to the other side of the main body 100 (e.g., the -z direction). When the other side of the main body 100 is inserted into the second main body insertion part 310a formed inside the second cover 300, the second cover 300 can be coupled to the main body 100, and the other side of the accommodation space 10a can be covered by the second cover 300.

[0163] The second cover 300 can include a snap member 310b that inserts into the cover insertion groove 100a of the main body 100. When the snap member 310b is inserted into the cover insertion groove 100a, the coupled state between the second cover 300 and the main body 100 can be maintained. The snap member 310b can protrude toward the second main body insertion part 310a along the circumferential direction of the second cover body 310, and the cover insertion groove 100a can be formed through the outer surface and the inner surface of the main body 100. The snap member 310b can be integrally formed with the second cover body 310.

[0164] The support unit 400 can be configured to surround the accommodation space 10a and can support a heater 500 that heats the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a. The support unit 400 can be disposed inside the shielding unit 800 and is supported by the main body 100 and the first cover 200.

[0165] The sensing connection unit 450 can be disposed in the support unit 400. The sensing connection unit 450 can perform a function of connecting the sensing unit 700 to the support unit 400. Thus, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be implemented in a structure in which the sensing unit 700 can easily sense the temperature of the heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400 through the sensing connection unit 450. For example, the sensing connection unit 450 can be disposed in the support unit 400 to be in contact with the heater 500.

[0166] In one embodiment, the sensing connection unit 450 can be disposed on at least a part of the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400, and at least a part of the sensing connection unit 450 and the support unit 400 can be formed together by insert injection. The sensing connection unit 450 can include a metal material, for example, can include at least one of copper (Cu), silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni).

[0167] The heater 500 can be disposed in the support unit 400 to heat the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a. When the heater 500 is cut with respect to a plane (e.g., xz plane) passing through the first direction (e.g., z-axis direction) and the second direction (e.g., x-axis direction) respectively, it can be formed in a shape having a circular cross-section. The first direction is the direction in which the support unit 400 extends, and the second direction is a direction crossing the first direction. That is, when the heater 500 is viewed from the y-axis direction, the heater 500 can be formed in a shape having a circular cross-section.

[0168] According to an embodiment, the heater 500 can be disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, in the direction (e.g., x-axis direction) crossing the direction (e.g., z-axis direction) in which the heater assembly 10 extends, the heater 500 can be disposed to completely overlap the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 can be disposed in the support unit 400 in such a manner as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0169] Accordingly, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Thus, a space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the space utilization rate inside the main body 100 can be improved, and thus miniaturization of the heater assembly 10 can be achieved.

[0170] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be implemented in a structure in which the total distance between the heater 500 and the accommodation space 10a is reduced. Accordingly, the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a can be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, and thus the heating efficiency of the base can be improved.

[0171] The antenna 600 can be configured to surround the accommodation space 10a and can identify whether the aerosol generating article 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space 10a. The antenna 600 can be disposed between the cover heat insulating member 220 and the shielding unit 800 on the inner side of the main body 100.

[0172] The sensing unit 700 can be disposed on one side (e.g., the +x direction) of the support unit 400 inside the main body 100 to sense the temperature of at least one of the heater 500 and the base. In one embodiment, the sensing unit 700 can be in contact with the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 to sense the temperature of the heater 500. The sensing unit 700 can be in contact with the support unit 400 by contacting the sensing connection unit 450.

[0173] The sensing unit 700 can include a sensing body 710 and a sensing connection part 720.

[0174] The sensing body 710 can function as the body of the sensing unit 700 and can extend along the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction). The sensing body 710 can be disposed between the main body 100 and the shielding unit 800. The sensing body 710 can be integrally formed with the sensing connection part 720.

[0175] The sensing connection part 720 can be a part of the sensing unit 700 connected to the support unit 400. The sensing connection part 720 can include a first part extending in a direction (e.g., the -x direction) crossing the direction in which the sensing body 710 extends and a second part extending in a direction (e.g., the -z direction) crossing the direction in which the first part extends. At least a part of the first part can be supported on the support unit 400, and at least a part of the second part can be connected to the support unit 400 through the sensing connection unit 450.

[0176] The shielding unit 800 may be configured to surround the accommodation space 10a inside the main body 100, and may be disposed between the support unit 400 and the sensing unit 700. That is, the shielding unit 800 may be disposed outside the support unit 400 where the heater 500 is disposed. Accordingly, the shielding unit 800 may function as a physical barrier to prevent the heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment uses the main body 100, the lid heat insulating member 220, and the shielding unit 800 to form a triple physical barrier to improve the heat insulation performance.

[0177] The shielding unit 800 may include a metallic material to prevent the heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. For example, the shielding unit 800 may include materials such as aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), etc.

[0178] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' line of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment to illustrate another example of the configuration of the heater. Figure 2 of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0179] Reference Figure 6 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first lid 200, a second lid 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing unit 900.

[0180] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5 , and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0181] At least a part of the heater 500 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, in the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) extending across the heater assembly 10, the heater 500 may be configured such that a part thereof overlaps with the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 may be spaced apart from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so that the heater 500 does not protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0182] Accordingly, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Thus, a space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the space utilization rate inside the main body 100 can be increased, and miniaturization of the heater assembly 10 can be achieved.

[0183] In addition, when compared with the Figure 5 illustrated embodiment, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be implemented in a structure in which the total distance between the heater 500 and the accommodation space 10a is further reduced. Accordingly, the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a can be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, and thus the heating efficiency of the base can be further improved.

[0184] According to an embodiment, a groove may be formed on the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400, and when the heater 500 is inserted into the groove, it can be disposed in the support unit 400. The groove formed on the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 extends along the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction) and may be formed along the circumferential direction of the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400.

[0185] Although not illustrated, the heater 500 may also be disposed along the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 in a state of being in contact with the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400.

[0186] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the A-A' line of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment to illustrate an example of the structure of the heater. Figure 2 of.

[0187] Referring to Figure 7 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing unit 900.

[0188] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 5 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device illustrated, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0189] The heater 500 can be formed in a shape having a cross-section extending in one direction with respect to a plane (e.g., the xz plane) passing through the first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) and the second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) crossing the first direction. The first direction is the direction in which the support unit 400 extends. For example, when the heater 500 is cut with respect to the xz plane, it can be formed in a shape having a quadrilateral cross-section. That is, when the heater 500 is viewed from the y-axis direction, the heater 500 can be formed in a shape having a quadrilateral cross-section.

[0190] Accordingly, as the cross-sectional area of the heater 500 increases, the resistance of the heater 500 decreases. Therefore, even if the same amount of power is supplied from the battery to the heater 500, a high current can be applied to the heater 500. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can increase the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field applied to the base, thereby increasing the calorific value of the base. For example, in Figure 5 the illustrated embodiment, the heater 500 can generate a magnetic field having a frequency of 1 MHz or more and 2 MHz or less, but in Figure 7 the illustrated embodiment, the heater 500 can generate a magnetic field having a frequency of 5 MHz or more.

[0191] According to an embodiment, the heater 500 can be disposed between the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, with respect to the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) crossing the direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) in which the heater assembly 10 extends, the heater 500 can be disposed to completely overlap the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 can be disposed in the support unit 400 in such a manner as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0192] Accordingly, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, since the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400, a space for disposing other components (e.g., the shielding unit 800) of the aerosol generating device 1 can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the space utilization rate inside the main body 100 can be improved, and thus miniaturization of the heater assembly 10 can be achieved.

[0193] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be implemented in a structure in which the total distance between the heater 500 and the accommodation space 10a is reduced. Accordingly, the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a can be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, and thus the heating efficiency of the base can be improved.

[0194] Although not illustrated, in Figure 7In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the heater 500 may also protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, based on the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that crosses the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction), the heater 500 may be configured such that a portion thereof overlaps with the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so that the heater 500 does not protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0195] Figure 8 This is an example for explaining the heating method of the heater. A cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the Figure 2 A-A' line of.

[0196] Refer to Figure 8 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing unit 900.

[0197] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 5 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0198] The gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 may be different along the direction in which the support unit 400 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction). For example, the gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 disposed on one side (e.g., the +z direction) of the support unit 400 may be shorter than the gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 disposed on the other side (e.g., the -z direction) of the support unit 400.

[0199] Accordingly, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may set different heating speeds between one side and the other side of the base disposed inside the heater 500. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may implement a structure in which different portions of the base are heated to different temperatures by one heater 500 connected in series.

[0200] According to an embodiment, the heater 500 may be disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, in the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) extending across the heater assembly 10, the heater 500 may be disposed to completely overlap the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 may be disposed in the support unit 400 in such a manner as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0201] Although not shown, in Figure 8 the illustrated embodiment, at least a part of the heater 500 may also protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, in the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) extending across the heater assembly 10, the heater 500 may be disposed such that a part thereof overlaps the support unit 400. In this case, the heater 500 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so that the heater 500 does not protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0202] Figure 9 is another example for explaining the heating method of the heater. A cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is cut along Figure 2 the A-A' line of

[0203] Referring to Figure 9 , a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing unit 900.

[0204] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 5 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in

[0205] The heater 500 may include a first heater 510 and a second heater 520 disposed at positions spaced apart from each other in the support unit 400. That is, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be disposed in different parts of the support unit 400. The first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be coils that generate an alternating magnetic field and may be respectively connected to a battery and a control unit.

[0206] Accordingly, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the control unit can separately control the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 to control the frequencies or heating rates of the magnetic fields generated in the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 to be different. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can implement a structure in which different parts of the base are heated to different temperatures by two heaters 500.

[0207] According to an embodiment, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 can be disposed between the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, in the direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) of the direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) extending across the heater assembly 10, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 can be disposed to completely overlap the support unit 400. In this case, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 can be disposed in the support unit 400 in such a manner as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0208] Accordingly, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 are not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, a space for disposing other components (e.g., the shielding unit 800) of the aerosol generating device 1 can be ensured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the space utilization rate inside the main body 100 can be improved, and thus miniaturization of the heater assembly 10 can be achieved.

[0209] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can be implemented in a structure in which the total spacing distance between the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 and the accommodation space 10a is reduced. Accordingly, the base disposed in the accommodation space 10a can be easily affected by the magnetic fields generated by the first heater 510 and the second heater 520, and thus the heating efficiency of the base can be improved.

[0210] Although not shown, in Figure 9In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may also protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, in a direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) perpendicular to the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction), the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be configured such that a portion thereof overlaps with the support unit 400. In this case, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so that the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 do not protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0211] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B' of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 2

[0212] Reference Figure 10 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a main body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing ring 170, a third sealing ring 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a shielding unit 800.

[0213] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figure 5 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0214] The first cover 200 may further include a first cover protruding member 230 and a coupling hole 270.

[0215] The first cover protruding member 230 protrudes outward so as to be coupled to a coupling member such as a screw, thereby fixing the heater assembly 10 in the aerosol generating device 1. The first cover protruding member 230 may protrude outward from the first cover body 210, and one may be disposed at each end with respect to the first cover body 210. The first cover protruding member 230 may also be integrally formed with the first cover body 210.

[0216] The coupling hole 270 may be formed in the first cover protruding member 230. A coupling member, which will be described later, may be inserted into the coupling hole 270. The coupling hole 270 may be formed to penetrate the first cover protruding member 230 and may be formed in the same number as the first cover protruding member 230.

[0217] Figure 11It is an assembled three-dimensional view of a holder, a first cover, a support unit, and a heater in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 11 The heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400 is shown by a dashed line.

[0218] Reference Figure 11 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a holder 150, a first cover 200, a support unit 400, and a heater 500. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown Figures 2 to 10 below, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0219] The holder 150 may be coupled to the first cover 200 on one side (e.g., the +z direction) of the first cover 200. Specifically, when the holder protrusion 150c is inserted into the holder insertion part 250, the holder 150 may be coupled to the first cover 200. When the holder 150 is coupled to the first cover 200, the insertion hole 150a may communicate with the article insertion part 240, and the aerosol generating article 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a and the article insertion part 240 may be supported on the ridge part 150b.

[0220] When the coupling member 280 is inserted into the coupling hole 270 formed in the first cover protrusion 230, the first cover 200 may be fixed within the aerosol generating device 1. The coupling member 280 fixes the first cover 200 within the aerosol generating device 1 so that the heater assembly 10 can be fixed within the aerosol generating device 1. The coupling member 280 may be a screw, but may be used without limitation as long as it can fix the first cover 200.

[0221] The cover heat insulating member 220 may extend in the direction in which the heater assembly 10 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction). In one embodiment, the cover heat insulating member 220 may extend longer than the support unit 400 and the heater 500. Thus, the cover heat insulating member 220 increases the area that can cover the support unit 400 and the heater 500, so that the heat insulating performance can be further improved.

[0222] The lid heat insulation member 220 can be inserted inside the main body 100 and is configured to surround a part of the outer sides of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. Thus, compared with a comparative example in which the lid heat insulation member 220 surrounds the entire outer sides of the support unit 400 and the heater 500, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the lid heat insulation member 220 can be easily inserted into the main body 100. This is because in the comparative example, during the process of inserting the lid heat insulation member 220 into the main body 100, the area where interference occurs between the lid heat insulation member 220 and the main body 100 increases. Thus, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can improve the ease of assembly between the lid heat insulation member 220 and the main body 100.

[0223] The heater 500 may include a heater connection part 500a for electrically connecting to a battery or a control unit of the aerosol generating device 1. The heater connection part 500a may protrude downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the support unit 400 to be mounted on the battery. The heater connection part 500a protruding downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the support unit 400 may be a wire for supplying power to the heater 500 and may pass through a through hole 330 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) of the second lid 300 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) and be connected to the battery or the control unit.

[0224] Figure 12 is an assembled perspective view of the combination of the support unit, the heater, the antenna, and the sensing unit in the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 12 The heater 500 disposed on the support unit 400 is shown in dashed lines.

[0225] Reference Figure 12 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, and a sensing unit 700. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figures 2 to 11 shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0226] The antenna 600 may include an antenna body 610, an antenna extension part 620, and an antenna connection part 630.

[0227] The antenna body 610 can function as the body of the antenna 600 and can extend in the direction in which the support unit 400 and the heater 500 extend (e.g., the z-axis direction). The antenna body 610 can be inserted inside the main body 100 and is configured to surround a part of the outer sides of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. Thus, compared with a comparative example in which the antenna body 610 surrounds the entire outer sides of the support unit 400 and the heater 500, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the antenna body 610 can be easily inserted into the main body 100.

[0228] The antenna extension 620 can extend from the antenna body 610 in the circumferential direction of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. That is, the antenna extension 620 can be configured to surround a part of the outer sides of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The antenna extension 620 can include a first extension extending from one side of the antenna body 610 and a second extension extending from the other side of the antenna body 610.

[0229] According to an embodiment, the end of the first extension and the end of the second extension can be spaced apart from each other, and a sensing passage portion 600a can be formed in the spaced-apart portion. Thus, the sensing unit 700 can pass through the sensing passage portion 600a and contact the support unit 400. That is, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, it can be implemented in a structure in which the antenna 600 and the sensing unit 700 do not contact each other, and thus, the possibility of an electrical short circuit occurring between the antenna 600 and the sensing unit 700 can be reduced. The sensing connection portion 720 of the sensing unit 700 can pass through the sensing passage portion 600a.

[0230] The antenna connection portion 630 can protrude downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the antenna body 610 to be electrically connected to the battery or the control unit of the aerosol generating device 1. The antenna connection portion 630 protruding downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the antenna body 610 can pass through the through hole 330 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) of the second cover 300 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) and be connected to the battery or the control unit. The antenna connection portion 630 can be integrally formed with the antenna body 610.

[0231] The sensing unit 700 can include a sensing body 710, a sensing connection portion 720, and a sensing connection portion 730.

[0232] The sensing body 710 may extend in the direction in which the support unit 400 and the heater 500 extend, and may be disposed on one side (e.g., the +x direction) of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The sensing body 710 may be disposed between the sensing connection part 720 and the sensing connection part 730 to connect the sensing connection part 720 and the sensing connection part 730. The sensing body 710, the sensing connection part 720, and the sensing connection part 730 may be integrally formed.

[0233] The sensing connection part 720 may pass through the sensing through part 600a and be connected to the support unit 400. At least a part of the sensing connection part 720 may extend in a direction different from the direction in which the sensing body 710 extends and be connected to the support unit 400.

[0234] The sensing connection part 730 may protrude from the sensing body 710 in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) to be electrically connected to the battery or the control unit of the aerosol generating device 1. The sensing connection part 730 protruding from the sensing body 710 in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) may pass through the through hole 330 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) of the second cover 300 (as shown in Figure 3 shown) and be connected to the battery or the control unit. In one embodiment, the sensing connection part 730 may include a first connection part extending in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) and a second connection part extending in a direction crossing the one direction (e.g., the +x direction).

[0235] Figure 13 is a combined perspective view of the first cover and the antenna in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0236] Reference Figure 13 According to an embodiment, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device may include a first cover 200 and an antenna 600. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figures 2 to 12 shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0237] The first cover body 210 may be disposed on one side (e.g., the +z direction) of the antenna 600 and cover one side of the antenna 600.

[0238] The cover heat insulation member 220 may be disposed inside the antenna 600 and be surrounded by the antenna 600.

[0239] In the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the antenna 600 may be configured to surround at least a part of the lid heat insulating member 220 when the assembly of the first lid 200 and the antenna 600 is completed. That is, the antenna body 610 may be disposed outside the lid heat insulating member 220 to support the lid heat insulating member 220 from the outside. Accordingly, the antenna body 610 may perform the function of fixing the position of the lid heat insulating member 220, and the lid heat insulating member 220 may stably perform the function of preventing the heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside.

[0240] Figure 14 is an assembled perspective view of the antenna, the sensing unit, and the shielding unit in the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0241] Reference Figure 14 , the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a shielding unit 800. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figures 2 to 13 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0242] The shielding unit 800 may include a shielding body 810 and a sensing through portion 820.

[0243] The shielding body 810 may function as the body of the shielding unit 800 and may be configured to surround the antenna 600. When the shielding unit 800 is assembled in the heater assembly 10, the shielding body 810 may be configured to surround the support unit 400, the heater 500, and the antenna 600.

[0244] The sensing through portion 820 may be formed in at least one area of the shielding body 810. The sensing through portion 820 may be formed on one side surface of the shielding body 810 (for example, the surface facing the +x direction), and the sensing unit 700 may be disposed on one side surface of the shielding body 810.

[0245] The sensing through portion 820 may allow the sensing connection portion 720 to pass through. That is, the sensing connection portion 720 may pass through the sensing through portion 820 of the shielding unit 800 and the sensing through portion 600a of the sensing unit 700 at the same time and be connected to the support unit 400. That is, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, even if the sensing unit 700 is disposed outside the antenna 600 and the shielding unit 800, the sensing connection portion 720 may be implemented in a structure capable of being connected to the antenna 600 and the support unit 400 disposed inside the shielding unit 800.

[0246] Figure 15 It is an assembled perspective view of a support unit, a heater, an antenna, a sensing unit, and a sealing unit shown for explaining that the sealing unit is coupled to the second cover. Figure 15 The heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400 is shown by a dashed line.

[0247] Reference Figure 15 , according to an embodiment, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device may include a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a sealing unit 900. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figures 2 to 14 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0248] The heater 500 may be electrically connected to a battery or a control unit through a heater connection part 500a. To this end, the heater connection part 500a may pass through the second cover 300 and be installed in the battery or the control unit.

[0249] The antenna 600 may be electrically connected to a battery or a control unit through an antenna connection part 630. To this end, the antenna connection part 630 may pass through the second cover 300 and be installed in the battery or the control unit.

[0250] The sensing unit 700 may be electrically connected to a battery or a control unit through a sensing connection part 730. To this end, the sensing connection part 730 may pass through the second cover 300 and be installed in the battery or the control unit.

[0251] The sealing unit 900 may be coupled to the second cover 300 to perform a function of sealing a through hole 330 of the second cover 300 through which the connection parts 500a, 630, and 730 pass. In other words, the sealing unit 900 may perform a function of sealing the lower side (e.g., -z direction) of the internal space of the main body 100 by sealing at least a part of the second cover 300.

[0252] The sealing unit 900 may include a first sealing member 910 and a second sealing member 920, and a detailed description thereof will be made with reference to Figure 16 and described.

[0253] Figure 16 It is an exploded perspective view of a second cover and a sealing unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0254] Reference Figure 16, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may include a second cover 300 and a sealing portion 900. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment may be the same as or similar to Figures 2 to 15 at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown, and repeated descriptions will be omitted hereinafter.

[0255] The second cover 300 may include a second cover body 310, a second cover protruding member 320, a through hole 330, and a sealing insertion groove 340.

[0256] The second cover body 310 may function as the body of the second cover 300 and may be coupled to at least a part (e.g., the second sealing member 920) of the sealing portion 900.

[0257] The second cover protruding member 320 may protrude from the second cover body 310 toward one side (e.g., the -z direction). The sealing portion 900 may be inserted or coupled to the second cover protruding member 320 in an engaging manner. The second cover protruding member 320 may also be integrally formed with the second cover body 310.

[0258] At least a part (e.g., the first sealing member 910) of the sealing portion 900 may be inserted into the through hole 330, and the connection portions 500a, 630, 730 may pass through the through hole 330. The through hole 330 may be formed to pass through the second cover body 310 and the second cover protruding member 320, respectively.

[0259] At least a part (e.g., the second sealing member 920) of the sealing portion 900 may be inserted into the sealing insertion groove 340. The second cover protruding member 320 may be formed in the sealing insertion groove 340. For example, one may be formed on each side of the second cover protruding member 320.

[0260] The sealing portion 900 may include a first sealing member 910 and a second sealing member 920.

[0261] The first sealing member 910 may be inserted into the through hole 330. In one embodiment, the first sealing member 910 may be inserted into the through hole 330 in an interference fit manner.

[0262] The second sealing member 920 may be coupled to the second cover protruding member 320. A hole is included inside the second sealing member 920, and the second cover protruding member 320 may be inserted into the above hole. In one embodiment, the second cover protruding member 320 may be inserted into the hole in an interference fit manner.

[0263] Figure 17 is a view showing the Figure 16 second cover.

[0264] Reference Figure 17 , the second cover 300 may include a second cover body 310, a second cover protruding member 320, a through hole 330, and a sealing insertion groove 340. The description of the components of the second cover 300 has been referred to Figure 16 and will not be described in detail here.

[0265] The second cover 300 may include an outer surface 300a and an inner surface 300b.

[0266] The outer surface 300a of the second cover 300 may be defined as the outer side surface of the second cover protruding member 320, and the outer surface 300a of the second cover 300 may contact the second sealing member 920.

[0267] The inner surface 300b of the second cover 300 may be defined as the inner side surface of the second cover protruding member 320 facing the through hole 330, and the inner surface 300b of the second cover 300 may contact the first sealing member 910.

[0268] Figure 18a is a view showing Figure 16 the first sealing member. Figure 18b is a view showing Figure 16 the second sealing member.

[0269] Reference Figure 18a , the first sealing member 910 may include a first sealing body 911, a first through groove 912, and a second through groove 913.

[0270] The first sealing body 911 may be inserted into the through hole 330 as the body of the first sealing member 910. The first through groove 912 and the second through groove 913 may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other on the first sealing body 911. The first sealing body 911 may be formed in an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape, but may be formed in other shapes as long as it can be inserted into the through hole 330.

[0271] The first through groove 912 allows the heater connection part 500a to pass through and may be formed in the first sealing body 911. The first through groove 912 may be formed by the following operation: the outer surface of the first sealing body 911 is processed into a groove with a depth reaching a specified depth. Figure 18a Two first through grooves 912 are shown, however this is only an example, and the number of first through grooves 912 that can be formed is not limited. For example, the first through grooves 912 may be formed in the first sealing body 911 in the same number as the heater connection part 500a.

[0272] The second through-hole 913 is for the sensing connection part 730 to pass through, and can be formed in the first sealing body 911 at a position spaced apart from the first through-hole 912. The second through-hole 913 can be formed through the following operations: the outer surface of the first sealing body 911 is machined into a groove with a depth reaching a specified depth. Figure 18a A second through-hole 913 is shown, however this is only an example, and the number of the formed second through-holes 913 is not limited. For example, the second through-holes 913 can be formed in the first sealing body 911 in the same number as the sensing connection parts 730.

[0273] Reference Figure 18b , the second sealing member 920 can include a second sealing body 921, a second cover insertion groove 922, and a sealing protrusion 923.

[0274] The second sealing body 921 can be combined with the second cover protrusion member 320 as the body of the second sealing member 920. The second cover insertion groove 922 and the sealing protrusion 923 can be formed in the second sealing body 921.

[0275] The second cover protrusion member 320 can be inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922. For example, the second cover protrusion member 320 can be inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922 in an interference fit manner, and in this case, no gap can be generated between the second cover protrusion member 320 and the second sealing body 921.

[0276] The sealing protrusion 923 protrudes toward the second cover insertion groove 922. When the second cover protrusion member 320 is inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922, the sealing protrusion 923 can be inserted into the sealing insertion groove 340 formed on the outer surface 300a of the second cover 300. Thereby, the bonding state between the second cover 300 and the second sealing member 920 can be made firm. The sealing protrusion 923 can be formed one on each of one side and the other side of the second sealing body 921. The sealing protrusion 923 can be integrally formed with the second sealing body 921.

[0277] The following will refer to Figure 19 , to illustrate the bonding structure between the second cover 300, the connection parts 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing part 900.

[0278] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment cut along Figure 15 the C-C' line.

[0279] When the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through-hole 330, as Figure 19As shown, the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 may be disposed between the first sealing member 910 and the second lid 300. Accordingly, even if vibrations or jolts act on the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, movement of the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 may be restricted.

[0280] The assembly process between the second lid 300, the connecting portions 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing portion 900 will be described below.

[0281] First, the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 are passed through the through-hole 330. The heater connecting portion 500a, the antenna connecting portion 630, and the sensing connecting portion 730 may pass through the through-hole 330 together, or the heater connecting portion 500a, the antenna connecting portion 630, and the sensing connecting portion 730 may pass through the through-hole 330 in sequence.

[0282] Among them, the size of the through-hole 330 is larger than the size of each of the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730. Accordingly, the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 may easily pass through the through-hole 330.

[0283] Next, the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through-hole 330. In this case, the heater connecting portion 500a is inserted into the first through-slot 912, the antenna connecting portion 630 is located on the inner surface 300b of the second lid 300, and the sensing connecting portion 730 may be inserted into the second through-slot 913.

[0284] If the first sealing member 910 is first inserted into the through-hole 330 and then the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 are passed through the through-hole 330, the size of the through-hole 330 becomes smaller. Accordingly, it is difficult to pass the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 through the through-hole 330. Accordingly, in this case, the assembly process between the second lid 300, the connecting portions 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing portion 900 is not easy.

[0285] However, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 are first inserted into the through-hole 330, and the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through-hole 330 in sequence, so that the assembly between the second lid 300, the connecting portions 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing portion 900 may be easily completed.

[0286] Figure 20 and Figure 21 are diagrams showing examples of aerosol generating articles according to an embodiment.

[0287] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 20 and Figure 21 examples of the aerosol generating article 2 will be described.

[0288] Figure 20 and Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol - generating article according to an embodiment.

[0289] Referring to Figure 20 , the aerosol - generating article 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22.

[0290] Although Figure 20 the filter rod 22 shown is a single segment, it is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a specified component contained in the aerosol. In addition, as needed, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0291] The diameter of the aerosol - generating article 2 is in the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12 mm, but it is not limited thereto.

[0292] The aerosol - generating article 2 may be packaged by at least one packaging unit 24. At least one hole may be formed in the packaging unit 24 for external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. As an example, the aerosol - generating article 2 may be packaged by one packaging unit 24. As another example, the aerosol - generating article 2 may also be packaged by two or more packaging units 24 in an overlapping manner. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by the first packaging unit 241, and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by the packaging units 242, 243, 244. Additionally, the entire aerosol - generating article 2 may be repackaged by a single packaging unit 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be packaged by the packaging units 242, 243, 244.

[0293] The first packaging unit 241 and the second packaging unit 242 may be made of ordinary filter wrapping paper. For example, the first packaging unit 241 and the second packaging unit 242 may be porous wrapping paper or non - porous wrapping paper. In addition, the first packaging unit 241 and the second packaging unit 242 may be made of oil - resistant paper and / or aluminum - laminated wrapping paper.

[0294] The third packaging unit 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third packaging unit 243 may be included in the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably may be included in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m2 within the range. In addition, the thickness of the third packaging unit 243 can be included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably, it can be 125 μm.

[0295] The fourth packaging unit 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard packaging paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth packaging unit 244 can be included within the range of 88 g / m 2 to 96 g / m 2 and preferably, it can be included within the range of 90 g / m 2 to 94 g / m 2 In addition, the thickness of the fourth packaging unit 244 can be included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably, it can be 125 μm.

[0296] The fifth packaging unit 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Among them, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to a specially made paper that is superior to ordinary paper in terms of tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. For example, the basis weight of the fifth packaging unit 245 can be included within the range of 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and preferably, it can be 60 g / m 2 . In addition, the thickness of the fifth packaging unit 245 can be included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably, it can be 67 μm.

[0297] A predetermined substance can be added inside the fifth packaging unit 245. Among them, as an example of the predetermined substance, it can be silicon (silicon), but it is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has heat resistance with little influence by temperature, oxidation resistance that is not easily oxidized, tolerance to various drugs, waterproofness to water, or electrical insulation properties, etc. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above properties can be coated (or laminated) on the fifth packaging unit 245 without limitation.

[0298] The fifth packaging unit 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the aerosol generating article 2 from burning. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater, there may be a possibility that the aerosol generating article 2 burns. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 21, the aerosol generating article 2 may burn. Even in this case, since the fifth packaging unit 245 contains non-combustible substances, the phenomenon of the aerosol generating article 2 burning can be prevented.

[0299] In addition, the fifth packaging unit 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device 1 from being contaminated by the substances generated in the aerosol generating article 2. Through the user's suction, a liquid substance can be generated in the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the aerosol generated in the aerosol generating article 2 is cooled by external air, so that a liquid substance (such as moisture, etc.) can be generated. When the fifth packaging unit 245 packages the aerosol generating article 2, the liquid substance generated inside the aerosol generating article 2 can be prevented from leaking to the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0300] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited thereto. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 may contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. In addition, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 in a manner of being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0301] The tobacco rod 21 can be made in various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made of a sheet, or can be made of a strand. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can also be made of cut tobacco obtained by cutting tobacco leaves into thin pieces. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting substance. For example, the heat-conducting substance can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat-conducting substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to increase the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can be used as a base heated by an induction heating type heater. At this time, although not shown, the tobacco rod 21 may include an additional base in addition to the heat-conducting substance surrounding its outside.

[0302] The filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 can be a cylindrical rod, or can be a tubular rod including a hollow inside. In addition, the filter rod 22 can also be a concave rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments can be made into other shapes.

[0303] The first segment of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment can be a tubular structure including a hollow inside. The phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 21 is pushed backward when inserted into the heater through the first segment can be prevented, and a cooling effect of the aerosol can also be generated. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment can be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0304] The length of the first section can be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first section can be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0305] When manufacturing the first section, the hardness of the first section can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer. In addition, structures such as films and tubes made of the same or different materials can be inserted inside (e.g., hollow) to manufacture the first section.

[0306] The second section of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by heating the tobacco rod 21 by the heater. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0307] The length or diameter of the second section can be determined in various ways according to the form of the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the length of the second section can be an appropriate length within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second section can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0308] The second section can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring liquid can also be coated on the fibers made of the polymer. In addition, separate fibers coated with the flavoring liquid and fibers made of the polymer can be woven together to make the second section. In addition, the second section can be formed by a curled polymer sheet.

[0309] For example, the polymer can be made of 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.

[0310] When the second section is formed by woven polymer fibers or a curled polymer sheet, the second section can include one or more channels extending longitudinally. Among them, the channel refers to a channel through which gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0311] For example, the second section made of a curled polymer sheet can be made of a material with a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as a thickness between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. In addition, the total surface area of the second section can be between about 300 mm 2 / mm to about 1000 mm 2 / mm. In addition, the aerosol cooling element can have a specific surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg to about 100 mm2 formed of materials between / mg.

[0312] On the other hand, the second section may include a thread containing volatile flavor components. Among them, the volatile flavor component may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread can be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide more than 1.5 mg of menthol to the second section.

[0313] The third section of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter tip. The length of the third section can be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third section can be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0314] During the production of the third section, it can be made to generate a fragrance by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third section. Additionally, separate fibers coated with the flavoring liquid can be inserted into the interior of the third section. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled when passing through the second section of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third section. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third section, the effect of improving the fragrance persistence transmitted to the user can be achieved.

[0315] In addition, the filter rod 22 can include at least one capsule 23. Among them, the capsule 23 can perform the function of generating a fragrance or the function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 can be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a thin film. The capsule 23 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0316] Refer to Figure 21 , the aerosol generating article 3 can also include a plug 33. The plug 33 can be located on the side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside, and can prevent the aerosol in a liquefied state during smoking from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0317] The filter rod 32 can include a first section 321 and a second section 322. Among them, the first section 321 can correspond to Figure 20 the first section of the filter rod 22, and the second section 322 can correspond to Figure 20 the third section of the filter rod 22.

[0318] The diameter and total length of the aerosol generating article 3 can correspond to Figure 20 the diameter and total length of the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the length of the plug 33 can be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 can be about 15 mm, the length of the first section 321 can be about 12 mm, and the length of the second section 322 can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0319] The aerosol generating article 3 can be packaged by at least one packaging unit 35. At least one hole can be formed in the packaging unit 35 for the inflow of external air or the outflow of internal gas. For example, the first packaging unit 351 can be used to package the plug 33, the second packaging unit 352 can be used to package the tobacco rod 31, the third packaging unit 353 can be used to package the first section 321, and the fourth packaging unit 354 can be used to package the second section 322. Additionally, the fifth packaging unit 355 can be used to repackage the entire aerosol generating article 3.

[0320] Furthermore, at least one through-hole 36 can be formed in the fifth packaging unit 355. For example, the through-hole 36 can be formed in the area wrapping the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The through-hole 36 can function to transfer the heat generated by the heater to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0321] Furthermore, the second section 322 can include at least one capsule 34. Among them, the capsule 34 can perform the function of generating fragrance or the function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 can be a structure in which a liquid containing fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 34 can have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0322] The first packaging unit 351 can be formed by combining ordinary filter wrapping paper with a metal foil such as aluminum foil. For example, the total thickness of the first packaging unit 351 can be in the range of 45μm to 55μm, preferably, it can be 50.3μm. Additionally, the thickness of the metal foil of the first packaging unit 351 can be in the range of 6μm to 7μm, preferably, it can be 6.3μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the first packaging unit 351 can be in the range of 50g / m 2 ~55g / m 2 and preferably, it can be 53g / m 2 .

[0323] The second packaging unit 352 and the third packaging unit 353 can be made of ordinary filter wrapping paper. For example, the second packaging unit 352 and the third packaging unit 353 can be porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper.

[0324] For example, the porosity of the second packaging unit 352 can be 35000CU, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the thickness of the second packaging unit 352 can be in the range of 70μm to 80μm, preferably, it can be 78μm. Furthermore, the basis weight of the second packaging unit 352 can be in the range of 20g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably, it can be 23.5g / m 2 .

[0325] For example, the porosity of the third packaging unit 353 can be 24000 CU, but it is not limited thereto. In addition, the thickness of the third packaging unit 353 can be in the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, preferably 68 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the third packaging unit 353 can be in the range of 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and preferably can be 21 g / m 2 .

[0326] The fourth packaging unit 354 can be made of polylactic acid (PLA) laminated paper. Among them, PLA laminated paper refers to a three-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth packaging unit 354 can be in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, preferably 110 μm. In addition, the basis weight of the fourth packaging unit 354 can be in the range of 80 g / m 2 ~100 g / m 2 and preferably can be 88 g / m 2 .

[0327] The fifth packaging unit 355 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Among them, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to a specially made paper that is superior to ordinary paper in terms of tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. For example, the basis weight of the fifth packaging unit 355 can be in the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and preferably can be 60 g / m 2 . In addition, the thickness of the fifth packaging unit 355 can be in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, preferably 67 μm.

[0328] A prescribed substance can be added inside the fifth packaging unit 355. Among them, as an example of the prescribed substance, it can be silicon, but it is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has heat resistance with little influence by temperature, oxidation resistance that is not easily oxidized, tolerance to various drugs, waterproofness to water, or electrical insulation properties, etc. However, even if it is not silicon, any substance having the above properties can be coated (or laminated) on the fifth packaging unit 355 without limitation.

[0329] The plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the plug 33 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting 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 mono denier of the filaments of the plug 33 can be 5.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the plug 33 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the 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 plug 33 can be 28,000.

[0330] In addition, if necessary, the plug 33 can include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made into various shapes.

[0331] The tobacco rod 31 can correspond to Figure 20 the tobacco rod 21 described above. Therefore, the following specific description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0332] The first section 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first section can be a hollow tubular structure. The first section 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to a cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first section 321 can be the same as those of the plug 33.

[0333] The second section 322 can be made of cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second section 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 mono denier of the filaments of the second section 322 can be 9.0. In addition, the cross-section of the filaments of the second section 322 can be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second section 322 can be in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0334] Figure 22 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0335] The aerosol generating device 1 can include a control unit 1000, a sensing unit 2000, an output unit 3000, a battery 4000, a heater 5000, a user input unit 6000, a memory 7000, and a communication unit 8000. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 21The structure shown. That is, a person of ordinary skill in the art related to the technical field of this embodiment can understand according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1 Figure 21 A part of the configuration shown can be omitted or new configurations can be further added.

[0336] The sensing unit 2000 is used to sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and can transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1000. The control unit 1000 can control the aerosol generating device 1 based on the sensed information to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 5000, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0337] The sensing unit 2000 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 2100, an insertion detection sensor 2200, and a puff sensor 2300, but is not limited thereto.

[0338] The temperature sensor 2100 can detect the temperature at which the heater 5000 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 5000, or the heater 5000 itself may be used as a temperature sensor. In addition, the temperature sensor 2100 may also be disposed around the battery 4000 to monitor the temperature of the battery 4000.

[0339] The insertion sensing sensor 2200 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 2200 may include at least one of a thin film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can sense a signal change when the aerosol generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0340] The puff sensor 2300 can sense a user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 2300 can sense a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0341] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (2100 to 2300), the sensing unit 2000 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a position sensor (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS)), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). A person of ordinary skill in the art can intuitively infer the functions of the respective sensors from their names, and thus specific descriptions may be omitted.

[0342] The output unit 3000 may output information about the state of the aerosol generating device 1 and provide it to the user. The output unit 3000 may include at least one of a display unit 3100, a haptic unit 3200, and an audio output unit 3300, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 3100 and the touchpad form a layered structure to constitute a touch screen, the display unit 3100 may also be used as an input device in addition to being used as an output device.

[0343] The display unit 3100 may visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may refer to various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 4000 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating state of the heater 5000, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., sensing of an abnormal article), etc., and the display unit 3100 may output the information to the outside. The display unit 3100 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panel, etc. In addition, the display unit 3100 may also be of the LED (light-emitting diode) light-emitting element type.

[0344] The haptic unit 3200 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus and provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user in a haptic manner. For example, the haptic unit 3200 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0345] The audio output unit 3300 may auditorily provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, the audio output unit 3300 may convert an electrical signal into an audio signal and output it to the outside.

[0346] The battery 4000 can supply the power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The battery 4000 can supply power to heat the heater 5000. In addition, the battery 4000 can supply the power required for the operation of other configurations (such as the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000) provided in the aerosol generating device 1. The battery 4000 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 4000 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0347] The heater 5000 can heat the aerosol generating substance by receiving the power supplied by the battery 4000. Although not shown in Figure 22 , the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (such as a DC / DC converter) for converting the power of the battery 4000 and supplying it to the heater 5000. In addition, when the aerosol generating device 1 generates aerosol by induction heating, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a DC / AC converter for converting the DC power of the battery 4000 into AC power.

[0348] The control unit 1000, the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000 can receive the power supplied by the battery 4000 to perform functions. Although not shown in Figure 22 , it may further include a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage stabilization circuit, for supplying power to each component by converting the power of the battery 4000.

[0349] In one embodiment, the heater 5000 can be formed of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials can 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 are not limited thereto. In addition, the heater 5000 can be implemented as a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with a conductive track, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0350] In another embodiment, the heater 5000 can be a heater of induction heating type. For example, the heater 5000 can include a base that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating substance.

[0351] The user input unit 6000 can receive information input by the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 6000 may include a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (capacitive touch method, piezoresistive film method, infrared sensing method, surface acoustic wave conduction method, an integral tension measurement method, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a roller, a roller switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, although not shown in Figure 21 the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and is connected to other external devices through the connection interface such as the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 4000.

[0352] The memory 7000 is hardware for storing various data processed in the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 1000 and data to be processed. The memory 7000 may include at least one type of storage medium such as a flash memory type memory, a hard disk type memory, a multimedia card micro type memory, a card type memory (e.g., 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 7000 can store data related to 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 the user's smoking pattern, etc.

[0353] The communication unit 8000 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 8000 may include a short-range communication unit 8100 and a wireless communication unit 8200.

[0354] The short-range wireless communication unit 8100 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a Wireless Local Area Network (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.

[0355] The wireless communication unit 8200 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, and a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 8200 may use membership information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to confirm and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1 in the communication network.

[0356] The control unit 1000 may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 1000 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, in which a program executable by the microprocessor is stored. In addition, those of ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment pertains can understand that the processor may also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0357] The control unit 1000 may control the temperature of the heater 5000 by controlling the power supplied from the battery 4000 to the heater 5000. For example, the control unit 1000 may control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 4000 and the heater 5000. In another example, the heating integrated circuit may also control the power supply to the heater 5000 according to a control command from the control unit 1000.

[0358] The control unit 1000 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 and control the subsequent processing operations to be performed. For example, the control unit 1000 can control the power supplied to the heater 5000 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 to start or end the operation of the heater 5000. As another example, the control unit 1000 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 5000 and the time of power supply based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 so that the heater 5000 is heated to a specified temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0359] The control unit 1000 can control the output unit 3000 based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 2300 reaches a preset number, the control unit 1000 can give a pre-warning to the user that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end through at least one of the display unit 3100, the tactile unit 3200, and the audio output unit 3300.

[0360] An embodiment can also be implemented in the form of a recording medium, which contains computer-executable instructions such as computer-executable program modules. The computer-readable medium can be any available medium accessible by a computer and includes volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. In addition, the computer-readable medium can include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and / or other data. Communication media generally includes other data or other transmission mechanisms of modulated data signals such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc., and includes any information delivery medium.

[0361] The description of the above embodiments is only exemplary, and those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field will understand that various deformations and equivalent other embodiments can be made therefrom. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the appended claims, and any differences within the scope equivalent to the content recorded in the claims should be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, characterized in that, Comprising: A main body forming a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article, A first lid coupled to the main body and having an article insertion portion for inserting the aerosol generating article, A support unit disposed inside the main body and the first lid, surrounding the aerosol generating article received in the receiving space, and A heater disposed between the inner surface and the outer surface of the support unit, applying a magnetic field to a base disposed in the receiving space to heat the aerosol generating article; The heater is configured to completely overlap the support unit in a second direction across a first direction, the first direction being the direction in which the support unit extends.

2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support unit and the heater are made by insert injection molding.

3. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the heater is cut with respect to a plane passing through the first direction in which the support unit extends and the second direction across the first direction, the heater has a cross section extending in the first direction.

4. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The frequency of the magnetic field applied to the base is 5 MHz or more.

5. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spacing between adjacent portions of the heater disposed on the first side of the support unit is different from the spacing between adjacent portions of the heater disposed on the second side of the support unit.

6. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heater includes a first heater and a second heater disposed on different parts of the support unit.

7. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further comprising: A sensing unit supported by the support unit inside the main body, sensing the temperature of at least any one of the support unit and the heater.

8. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 7, characterized in that, Further comprising: A sensing connection unit disposed at a portion where the support unit and the sensing unit are connected, having a metallic material.

9. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first lid further includes: A lid heat insulation member extending along the direction in which the heater extends and disposed between the heater and the main body.

10. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the first lid is coupled to the main body, the lid heat insulation member is inserted inside the main body to surround a part of the outer side of the heater.

11. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further comprising: An antenna is disposed inside the main body so as to surround at least a part of the outer side of the heater, and identifies whether the aerosol generating article is accommodated in the accommodation space.

12. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 11, characterized in that further comprising: a shielding unit disposed between the antenna and the main body so as to surround at least a part of the outer side of the antenna.

13. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that further comprising: a second cover coupled to the main body and forming the accommodation space together with the main body and the first cover, and a sealing portion inserted into a through hole formed in the second cover and sealing the through hole.

14. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, characterized in that comprising: a main body forming an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol generating article, a first cover coupled to the main body and having an article insertion portion for inserting the aerosol generating article, a support unit disposed inside the main body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space, and a heater protruding from an inner surface of the support unit toward the accommodation space and applying a magnetic field to a base disposed in the accommodation space to heat the aerosol generating article.

15. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that comprising: the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, a battery supplying power to the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, and a control unit controlling the operation of the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device.

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