Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device includes: a storage unit that stores an aerosol-generating substance; a generating unit that generates an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance; an inflow unit that fluidly connects the storage unit and the generation unit; and a vibration part which generates vibration to transmit the vibration to the inflow part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device capable of removing bubbles generated during aerosol generation. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, there has been increasing demand for alternative methods that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, there is growing demand for systems that generate aerosol by burning cigarettes rather than heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating substances using an aerosol-generating device. Consequently, research into heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] In the field of aerosol generating devices using a sol-forming substance in a liquid-gas state, research on smooth supply of liquid is actively being conducted. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] The cartridge of an aerosol-generating device typically includes a storage unit for storing a liquid phase substance (hereinafter, the term "liquid phase" may be used synonymously with "aerosol-generating substance," and is referred to as "liquid phase") and a generation unit for generating an aerosol from the liquid phase. The liquid phase stored in the storage unit is transferred to the generation unit, which atomizes the liquid phase into an aerosol.

[0006] In a structure where liquid phase is transferred from a storage unit to a production unit, bubbles may form in the inlet fluidically connecting the storage unit and the production unit. This may disrupt the supply of liquid phase to the production unit and reduce the amount of atomization.

[0007] The embodiment aims to provide an improved aerosol generating device to remove bubbles generated in an inflow portion.

[0008] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to the above problems, and problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the drawings.

[0009] Means used to solve problems

[0010] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include: a storage portion storing an aerosol generating substance; a generating portion generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating substance; an inflow portion fluidically connecting the storage portion and the generating portion; and a vibrating portion generating vibration to transmit the vibration to the inflow portion.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the aerosol generating device of the embodiment, it is possible to smoothly transfer the aerosol generating substance by removing bubbles.

[0013] Furthermore, according to the aerosol generating device of the embodiment, the atomization amount of the aerosol generating substance can be increased.

[0014] Effects of the embodiment are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figures 1 to 3 is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0016] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a cigarette cartridge.

[0017] Figure 5a and Figure 5b FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cigarette cartridge for explaining a vibrating portion of a cigarette cartridge applicable to an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cigarette cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the coupling action of a cigarette cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10a 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main body of an aerosol generating device and a cigarette cartridge separated therefrom according to yet another embodiment.

[0024] Figure 10b yes Figure 10a A cross-sectional view of the main body of the aerosol generating device and the cigarette cartridge combined therewith is shown.

[0025] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The terms used in the embodiments are currently widely used general terms selected while taking into account the functions of the embodiments. However, these terms may change based on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in specific cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms. In such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the corresponding description. Therefore, the terms used in the embodiments should be defined based on their meanings and the overall content of the embodiments, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0030] Throughout this specification, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, unless otherwise specified, other components are not excluded and may also include other components. In addition, terms such as "unit" and "module" described in this specification refer to a unit that performs at least one function or operation, which can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0031] As used in this specification, when the expression "at least one" or the like precedes an array of elements, it modifies the entire array of elements rather than each individual element in the array. For example, "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0032] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in the internal space.

[0033] 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 that is heated when current flows through the conductive track.

[0034] The heater may comprise a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element or a rod heating element, and depending on the shape of the heating element, the interior or exterior of the cigarette may be heated.

[0035] A cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, a strand, or finely chopped tobacco from a tobacco sheet. Furthermore, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil.

[0036] The filter plug may be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter plug may be composed of more than one segment. For example, the filter plug may include a first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering a specified component contained in the aerosol.

[0037] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0038] The aerosol-generating device may include a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a main body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge may be detachably coupled to the main body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be integrally formed or assembled with the main body, or may be secured to prevent user disassembly. The cartridge may be mounted to the main body while containing the aerosol-generating substance. However, without limitation, the aerosol-generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the main body.

[0039] The cartridge may contain an aerosol-forming substance in one of various states, such as a liquid, a solid, a gas, or a gel. The aerosol-forming substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0040] The cartridge can be operated by an electrical signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main body, thereby converting the phase of the aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge into a gas phase to generate an aerosol. The aerosol can refer to a gas in a state of vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance and mixed with air.

[0041] In yet another embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol may pass through a cigarette and be delivered to a user. That is, the aerosol generated from the liquid composition may move along an airflow channel of the aerosol-generating device, and the airflow channel may be configured to allow the aerosol to pass through the cigarette and be delivered to the user.

[0042] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance using ultrasonic vibrations. In this case, ultrasonic vibrations refer to a method of generating aerosol by atomizing the aerosol-generating substance using ultrasonic vibrations generated by a vibrator.

[0043] The aerosol generating device may include a vibrator, and the vibrator generates short-period vibrations to atomize the aerosol generating substance. The vibrations generated by the vibrator may be ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibrations may be about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0044] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a wick that absorbs the aerosol generating substance.For example, the wick may be configured to surround at least one region of the vibrator or to be in contact with at least one region of the vibrator.

[0045] When a voltage (e.g., AC voltage) is applied to the vibrator, the vibrator generates heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations, which are then transferred to the aerosol-forming substance absorbed in the core. The aerosol-forming substance absorbed in the core is converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transferred from the vibrator, resulting in the generation of an aerosol.

[0046] For example, the heat generated by the vibrator can reduce the viscosity of the aerosol-generating substance absorbed in the core, and the ultrasonic vibration generated by the vibrator can micronize the aerosol-generating substance with reduced viscosity, thereby generating aerosol, but is not limited to this.

[0047] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating article contained in the aerosol generating device using induction heating.

[0048] The aerosol-generating device may include a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil can apply a magnetic field to the susceptor. When the aerosol-generating device supplies power to the coil, a magnetic field can be formed within the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be a magnetic body that generates heat due to an external magnetic field. The susceptor is located within the coil and generates heat as the magnetic field is applied, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the susceptor may be located within the aerosol-generating article.

[0049] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a cradle.

[0050] The aerosol generating device can be combined with an additional cradle to form a system. For example, the cradle can be used to charge the battery of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the heater can be heated when the cradle is combined with the aerosol generating device.

[0051] The following describes embodiments of the present disclosure in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. The present disclosure can be implemented in the form of aerosol generating devices that can be implemented in the various embodiments described above, and can also be implemented and implemented in various different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] Figures 1 to 3is a diagram showing an example of an aerosol generating device.

[0054] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating device 1 may include: a battery 11 , a control unit 12 , a heater 13 and a vaporizer 14 .

[0055] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing, wherein the housing includes a receiving space for receiving an aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 so that the aerosol generating article 2 may be received in the receiving space of the housing. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 is shown to include a heater 13 , but the heater 13 may be omitted as required.

[0056] Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 is not provided with a space for inserting the aerosol generating article 2 , and therefore is not provided with a heater 13 for heating the aerosol generating article 2 .

[0057] Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG. 1 shows the components related to this embodiment. Figures 1 to 3 In addition to the components shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may include other components.

[0058] Figure 1 The battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are shown to be arranged in a row. Figure 2 The vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are shown to be arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figures 1 to 3 In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 may be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0059] The battery 11 provides power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 11 can supply power to heat the heater 13 or vaporizer 14, and can also supply power required for the operation of the control unit 12. Furthermore, the battery 11 can supply power required for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, and the like installed in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0060] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls not only the battery 11, heater 13, and vaporizer 14, but also the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the control unit 12 can also confirm the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0061] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor can be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program (executable on the microprocessor). In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor can also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0062] The heater 13 can be heated by power supplied by the battery 11. For example, when the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the aerosol-generating article 2. Thus, the heated heater 13 can increase the temperature of the aerosol-generating substance in the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0063] The heater 13 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 may include a conductive track, and when current flows through the conductive track, the heater 13 is heated. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example; any heater 13 may be used without limitation as long as it can heat to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generating device 1 or set by the user.

[0064] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the aerosol-generating article by induction heating, and the aerosol-generating article may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

[0065] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The heater 13 is shown as being disposed outside the aerosol-generating article 2, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the heater 13 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element. Depending on the shape of the heating element, the interior or exterior of the aerosol-generating article 2 can be heated.

[0066] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may be further provided with a plurality of heaters 13. In this case, the plurality of heaters 13 may be configured to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 or may be configured to be outside the aerosol generating article 2. In addition, a portion of the plurality of heaters 13 may be configured to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2, and the remaining portion may be configured to be outside the aerosol generating article 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shape shown can be made into various shapes.

[0067] The vaporizer 14 is a structure for storing an aerosol-generating substance and generating vaporized aerosol by atomizing the aerosol-generating substance.

[0068] The vaporizer 14 may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid delivery unit, and an atomizing element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage portion, the liquid delivery unit, and the atomizing element may also be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0069] The liquid storage unit can store an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit can be detachable from or attachable to the vaporizer 14, or can be integrally formed with the vaporizer 14.

[0070] For example, the aerosol-forming substance may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavor components, and the like. The flavoring may include, but is not limited to, ingredients that can provide the user with a variety of aromas or flavors. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. In addition, the aerosol-forming substance may include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0071] The liquid transfer unit can receive the aerosol-generating substance from the liquid storage portion and absorb the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid transfer unit can be a wick of cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0072] The liquid transfer unit may have an elongated shape. For example, the liquid transfer unit may be in the shape of a column extending in one direction. Specifically, the liquid transfer unit may be in the shape of a polygonal column, such as a cylinder, a square column, or a triangular column, but is not limited to the above examples. The liquid transfer unit may also be in the shape of a rod or needle.

[0073] The aerosol-generating substance absorbed into one portion of the liquid transfer unit can move to another portion of the liquid transfer unit by means of capillary action. Thus, the liquid transfer unit can transfer the aerosol-generating substance to the atomizing element.

[0074] The atomizing element can generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance absorbed by the liquid transfer unit. As an example, the atomizing element can be a heating element that generates heat to heat the aerosol-generating substance. When the aerosol-generating substance in contact with the heating element is heated by the heating element, an aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating substance.

[0075] The heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. The heating element may include a resistor having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR).

[0076] The heating element may be formed of a conductive filament such as a nickel-chromium wire and heated by a supplied current. Alternatively, the heating element may be formed of a susceptor material heated by an induction magnetic field and heated by an induction magnetic field generated by a separately configured induction coil.

[0077] As another example, the atomizing element may be an ultrasonic vibrator that generates aerosol from the aerosol-forming substance using ultrasonic vibrations. The ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of atomizing the aerosol-forming substance to generate aerosol using ultrasonic vibrations generated by the vibrator.

[0078] The aerosol generation method of the atomizing element is not limited to the above examples, and may include various methods of generating aerosol from an aerosol-generating substance.

[0079] The atomizing element can be incorporated not only by means of structural features such as winding around the liquid transfer unit, but can also be permanently or reversibly attached and configured on the liquid transfer unit by coating, spraying, deposition, electroplating, dipping, painting, printing, 3D printing, using structures, etc. Furthermore, the atomizing element can be configured on the liquid transfer unit by sintering the atomizing element together during the manufacturing process of the liquid transfer unit.

[0080] The arrangement of the atomizing element is not limited to the above examples, and may include various ways to enable the atomizing element to be configured in the liquid transfer unit while maintaining its functionality.

[0081] The aerosol generated by the atomizing element can move along the air flow path. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment, the aerosol moving along the airflow path can pass through the aerosol generating article 2 and be delivered to the user. Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol moving along the airflow path can pass through the mouthpiece 18 and be delivered to the user.

[0082] The vaporizer 14 may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0083] The vaporizer 14 can be a cartridge that can be inserted into or removed from the main body of the aerosol generating device 1 or the aerosol generating device 1. When the aerosol generating substance stored in the vaporizer 14 is completely consumed, the aerosol generating substance can be replenished or replaced with another vaporizer 14 that stores aerosol generating substance.

[0084] Hereinafter, the structure corresponding to the vaporizer 14 will be referred to as a cartridge, and the cartridge and the aerosol generating device will be described in detail.

[0085] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a cigarette cartridge.

[0086] Reference Figure 4 The cigarette cartridge 100 may include: a storage portion 110 , a generating portion 120 , a connecting portion 130 and an inflow portion 135 .

[0087] The storage unit 110 can store aerosol-generating substances. Figures 1 to 3 The liquid storage portion included in the vaporizer 14 is the same.

[0088] The generating unit 120 may generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating substance. Specifically, when the aerosol generating substance is supplied from the storage unit 110 to the generating unit 120 , the aerosol generating substance may be atomized into an aerosol by the generating unit 120 .

[0089] Aerosol refers to a gas (eg, air) in which suspended matter such as liquid and / or solid particles is dispersed. Therefore, the aerosol generated from the generating unit 120 may refer to a state in which vaporized particles generated from an aerosol generating substance are mixed with air.

[0090] The generating unit 120 can convert the phase of the aerosol-generating substance into a gas phase by evaporation and / or sublimation. In other words, the generating unit 120 can generate aerosol by micronizing and releasing the aerosol-generating substance in any one of a liquid, solid, and gel state or a combination thereof.

[0091] although Figure 4 Not specifically shown, the generating unit 120 may include Figures 1 to 3 The vaporizer 14 includes a liquid transfer unit and an atomizing element. The generating portion 120 may include a generating space 125 in which the liquid transfer unit and the atomizing element are configured.

[0092] The connecting portion 130 may be disposed between the storage portion 110 and the generating portion 120 and coupled to the storage portion 110 and the generating portion 120. The storage portion 110 and the generating portion 120 may be connected via the connecting portion 130. The connecting portion 130 may seal at least a portion of the storage portion 110 and / or the generating portion 120 to prevent accidental leakage of the aerosol-generating substance or the aerosol from the storage portion 110 and / or the generating portion 120.

[0093] The connection portion 130 may be a component included in the storage portion 110. For example, the connection portion 130 may be a bottom wall of the storage portion 110 disposed at the lower portion (e.g., in the -z direction) of the storage portion 110. In this case, even without a separate connection portion 130, the storage portion 110 and the generating portion 120 may be connected by being coupled to each other.

[0094] The connection portion 130 may be a component included in the generating portion 120. For example, the connection portion 130 may be an upper wall of the generating portion 120 disposed above the generating portion 120 (e.g., in the +z direction). In this case, even without a separate connection portion 130, the storage portion 110 and the generating portion 120 may be connected by being coupled to each other.

[0095] The connection portion 130 may include an inflow portion 135 that fluidly connects the storage portion 110 and the generation portion 120. The aerosol-generating substance can move from the storage portion 110 to the generation portion 120 through the inflow portion 135. The inflow portion 135 may include various shapes such as holes or channels that allow the aerosol-generating substance to move, and a plurality of inflow portions 135 may be provided.

[0096] The storage section 110 and the generation section 120 may each include an opening located at a position corresponding to the inflow section 135. When the connection section 130 is the bottom wall of the storage section 110, the inflow section 135 may be the opening 110h of the storage section 110. Similarly, when the connection section 130 is the top wall of the generation section 120, the inflow section 135 may be the opening 120h of the generation section. In other words, even without a separate connection section 130, the opening 110h of the storage section and the opening 120h of the inflow section may each serve as the inflow section 135.

[0097] Unless otherwise specified below, the connection portion 130 may be described as a structure included in the storage portion 110 or the generation portion 120. In addition, the inflow portion 135 may refer to all openings and channels that connect the storage portion 110 and the generation portion 120 in a fluid manner, thereby enabling the aerosol-generating substance to move from the storage portion 110 to the generation portion 120.

[0098] The cartridge 100 may further include a housing (not shown). The housing forms the exterior of the cartridge 100 and may house and protect the components of the cartridge 100. The interior of the housing may house, but is not limited to, the storage unit 110, the generating unit 120, the connecting unit 130, and the like.

[0099] The cartridge 100 may further include an airflow path (not shown). The airflow path may serve as a passage for air and / or aerosol. External air may flow into the interior of the cartridge and reach the generation unit 120 through a portion of the airflow path. The air reaching the generation unit 120 may mix with vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating substance. The mixed aerosol may move along another portion of the airflow path, from the generation unit 120 to the exterior of the cartridge 100.

[0100] The following will refer to Figure 5a and Figure 5b , explaining the bubbles generated in the inflow portion 135 and the vibrating unit for removing the bubbles

[0101] Figure 5a and Figure 5b FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cigarette cartridge for explaining a vibrating portion of a cigarette cartridge applicable to an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0102] Reference Figure 5a and Figure 5b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include: a cartridge 100, a storage unit 110, a generating unit 120, an inflow unit 135, and a vibrating unit 140. In this case, the storage unit 110, the generating unit 120, the inflow unit 135, and the vibrating unit 140 may be components included in the cartridge 100.

[0103] Figure 5a and Figure 5b At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 100 shown may be Figure 4 At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 100 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0104] As described above, a liquid transfer unit and an atomizing element may be disposed inside the generation space 125. During the atomization operation of the cartridge 100, the aerosol generating material transferred from the storage portion 110 through the inflow portion 135 may be atomized inside the generation space 125, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0105] Reference Figure 5a During the aerosol-generating material's atomization by the atomizer, bubbles may form within the generation space 125 due to the atomized gas. One example of bubbles forming within the generation space 125 may be when the aerosol atomized by the atomizer is not fully inhaled by the user. Other examples include when the aerosol generated during atomization is high due to the atomizer's high power, resulting in a large amount of atomization, or when the user tilts the cigarette cartridge. Bubbles generated within the generation space 125 can move to the inlet portion 135.

[0106] Depending on the situation, bubbles may also form in the inflow section 135. When the aerosol-forming substance stored in the storage section 110 moves through the inflow section 135 into the generation space 125, a pressure difference may occur between the storage section 110 and the generation space 125. Some of the external air flowing into the generation space 125 may flow back in the direction opposite to the movement of the aerosol-forming substance to compensate for the pressure difference. As a result, some of the external air moves into the inflow section 135, potentially causing bubbles to form in the inflow section 135. However, the causes of bubble generation are not limited to the above-described situations.

[0107] The bubbles in the inflow portion 135 may narrow or block the inflow portion 135, thereby possibly preventing the aerosol-generating substance from flowing from the storage portion 110 into the generating space 125. If the bubbles prevent the inflow of the aerosol-generating substance, the aerosol-generating substance may not be smoothly transferred to the liquid transfer unit in the generating space 125.

[0108] This can cause the liquid transfer unit to become carbonized by the atomizing element during atomization. "Carbonization" refers to a darkening caused by high temperature. Carbonization of the liquid transfer unit can produce harmful substances that can be passed on to the user. When inhaling the aerosol, the user may experience a burning odor and other discomfort.

[0109] Furthermore, the amount of aerosol-generating material atomized by the atomizing element may temporarily decrease, causing the amount of atomized material generated during atomization to be less than that without bubbles.

[0110] In order to solve the above problem, the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment may include a vibration unit 140. The vibration unit 140 may generate vibration to transfer the vibration to the inflow unit 135.

[0111] Reference Figure 5b The vibration of the vibration unit 140 can vibrate the cigarette cartridge 100. When the cigarette cartridge 100 vibrates, the vibration is transmitted to the inflow unit 135, thereby removing bubbles in the inflow unit 135. Therefore, the movement of the aerosol-generating substance through the inflow unit 135 can be smoothed.

[0112] The placement of the vibration unit 140 is not limited to a specific location. Because the vibration unit 140 is required to remove bubbles from the inflow portion 135, placing the vibration unit 140 closer to the inflow portion 135 may facilitate bubble removal. Similarly, when the vibration unit 140 is placed outside the cigarette cartridge, placing it closer to the cigarette cartridge 100 may facilitate transmission of vibration force to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0113] The vibration part 140 can be configured on the outer surface of the cartridge 100. In this case, the outer surface of the cartridge 100 refers not only to the outer surface of the shell of the cartridge 100, but also to the outer surface of the structure where the storage part 110, the generating part 120 and the connecting part 130 are combined. Figure 5a and Figure 5b , it is shown that the vibration part 140 is arranged on the side of the connection part 130, but the arrangement of the vibration part 140 is not limited to the embodiment.

[0114] The vibration unit 140 may include various components capable of generating vibrations, and may generate vibrations mechanically or electrically. For example, the vibration unit 140 may include an actuator such as a motor, a piezoelectric element, and a switch.

[0115] The vibration part can be configured to move along the vertical direction of the cigarette cartridge 100 (for example, the length direction of the cigarette cartridge, Figure 5a and Figure 5b Such a vibration direction may be effective in removing bubbles in the inflow portion 135. However, the vibration direction of the vibration portion is not limited to the above example. The vibration direction of the vibration portion 140 may include all directions, and the vibration portion 140 may be configured regardless of the vibration direction.

[0116] Figure 6 Is used to indicate that the configuration is in Figure 5a Cross-sectional views of the cigarette cartridge showing the vibrating portion at different positions of the vibrating portion are shown.

[0117] Reference Figure 6 The vibration unit 140 can be configured inside the cartridge 100. At this time, the inside of the cartridge 100 can refer not only to the inside of the shell of the cartridge 100, but also to the inside of the structure in which the storage unit 110, the generation unit 120 and the connection unit 130 are combined.

[0118] As an example, the vibrating unit 140 can be disposed on one surface (e.g., the lower surface) of the connecting portion 130. In other words, the inflow portion 135 can be disposed on one surface (e.g., the lower surface) of the storage portion 110, and the vibrating unit 140 can be disposed adjacent to the inflow portion 135 on one surface of the storage portion 110. In this case, the vibrating unit 140 can be disposed in a position that does not hinder the movement of aerosol-forming substances through the inflow portion 135.

[0119] However, the arrangement of the vibration part 140 is not limited to the structure of the embodiment. Even if the vibration part is arranged inside the inflow part 135, if the size of the inflow part 135 is large enough so that the aerosol generating substance can pass smoothly, the vibration part can be arranged inside the inflow part 135.

[0120] When the vibration part 140 is disposed inside the cigarette cartridge 100 , particularly when the vibration part 140 is disposed adjacent to the inflow part 135 , the bubble removal efficiency of the vibration part 140 can be improved.

[0121] Figure 7a and Figure 7b They are cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0122] Figure 7a The aerosol generating device 1 can be used with Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 is the same. Figure 7b The aerosol generating device 1 can be used with Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 is the same as the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 7a and Figure 7b When Figure 2 and Figure 3 Components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown.

[0123] Reference Figure 7a and Figure 7b The aerosol generating device 1 according to the embodiment may include a cigarette cartridge 100 and a main body 200. Figure 7a and Figure 7b At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 100 shown may be Figure 5a and Figure 5b At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 100 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0124] The main body 200 may refer to the remaining components of the aerosol generating device 1 except the cigarette cartridge 100. That is, the main body 200 may include Figures 1 to 3 The battery 11, the control unit 12 and the heater 13 are provided.

[0125] The body 200 forms a portion of the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1 and may house and protect components of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the body 200 may house the battery 11 and the control unit 12, but is not limited thereto.

[0126] The cartridge 100 may be coupled to a portion of the body 200 to form the appearance of the aerosol generating device 1 together with the body 200. The cartridge 100 may be coupled to the body 200 and serve as a component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0127] Reference Figure 7b The main body 200 may include: a shell 201 , a receiving space 202 , a heater 203 and an air flow path 204 .

[0128] The housing 201 may form an exterior of the main body 200 and include a receiving space 202 for receiving the aerosol-generating article 2. The receiving space 202 may receive the aerosol-generating article 2 inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0129] The heater 203 can generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating article contained in the containing space 202, and can also generate aerosol with the aerosol-generating article. Figure 2 The heater 13 is the same or similar.

[0130] The airflow path 204 can be connected to the airflow path of the cigarette cartridge, so as to transfer the aerosol generated in the generating portion 120 to the accommodating space 202 .

[0131] Reference Figure 7a and Figure 7b The vibration unit 140 can be configured outside the cigarette cartridge. As an example, the vibration unit 140, as a component included in the cigarette cartridge 100, can be configured outside the cigarette cartridge 100 and transmit vibrations to the cigarette cartridge. As another example, the vibration unit 140, as a component included in the main body 200, can be configured in a portion of the main body 200 adjacent to the main body 200 and transmit vibrations to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0132] The main body 200 may include a support portion 210 that supports the cigarette cartridge 100. The support portion 210 may refer to a portion of the main body that contacts the cigarette cartridge 100 and can constrain the movement of the cigarette cartridge 100 relative to the main body in one direction. For example, the support portion 210 may support the lower end of the cigarette cartridge 100 in the z-axis direction. In this case, the vibrator 140 may be disposed on the support portion 210 and transmit vibrations to the lower end of the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0133] The main body 200 may include a groove 220 capable of accommodating the vibration unit 140 disposed externally of the cigarette cartridge 100. The groove 220 may be formed adjacent to the cigarette cartridge 100. For example, the groove 220 may be formed in the support portion 210. The vibration unit 140 disposed in the groove 220 can transmit vibrations to the cigarette cartridge 100 without hindering the connection between the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0134] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly action of a cigarette cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0135] Figure 8 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown may be Figure 7b At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0136] Reference Figure 8According to another embodiment, the main body 200 of the aerosol generating device 1 may include an extension portion 230 extending toward the cigarette cartridge 100 to form an installation space 235 for accommodating the cigarette cartridge 100 .

[0137] The extension portion 230 can be connected to the support portion (eg Figure 7b The extension 230 and the support portion 210 extend facing each other. A mounting space 235 for the cigarette cartridge 100 may be formed between the extension 230 and the support portion 210. When the aerosol generating device 1 is separated into the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100, the mounting space 235 in the main body 200 may be exposed. When the cigarette cartridge 100 is combined with the main body 200, it can be accommodated between the extension 230 and the support portion 210, enclosing the mounting space 235.

[0138] The vibration part 140 can be arranged on the extension part 230 and transmit vibration to the upper end of the cigarette cartridge 100 when the cigarette cartridge 100 is accommodated in the installation space 235. In this case, the vibration part 140 can be arranged in a groove formed on the extension part 230 (for example, Figure 7b groove 220 in the bottom surface of the substrate).

[0139] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0140] Figure 9 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown may be Figure 7b At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0141] Reference Figure 9 According to another embodiment, the cartridge 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 can be detachably combined with one side of the main body 200. At this time, the cartridge 100 is electrically connected to the main body 200 to receive power from the battery, and the power supply can be controlled by the control unit.

[0142] The main body 200 may include a coupling member 240 for coupling the main body 200 to the cigarette cartridge 100 and / or for maintaining or releasing the coupling state between the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100. For example, the coupling member 240 may include a fastening member that engages with a fastening groove of the cigarette cartridge 100 for direct coupling with the cigarette cartridge 100, and a moving member for moving the fastening member to achieve coupling and separation. However, the coupling member is not limited to the above examples.

[0143] Because the coupling member 240 is positioned between the main body 200 and the cartridge 100, the perimeter of the coupling member 240 can maintain a surplus space. For example, because the coupling member 240 protrudes from the main body 200 toward the cartridge 100, the protruding perimeter of the coupling member 240 can provide a free space. In this case, the vibrating unit 140 can be positioned around the perimeter of the coupling member 240.

[0144] The vibration part 140 disposed adjacent to the coupling member 240 may be disposed adjacent to the cartridge 100 while being located in a free space that does not hinder the coupling between the main body 200 and the cartridge 100 .

[0145] Figure 10a 4 is a cross-sectional view of a main body of an aerosol generating device and a cigarette cartridge separated therefrom according to yet another embodiment. Figure 10b yes Figure 10a A cross-sectional view of the main body of the aerosol generating device and the cigarette cartridge combined therewith is shown.

[0146] Figure 10a and Figure 10b At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown may be Figure 9 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0147] Reference Figure 10a and Figure 10b According to another embodiment, the cartridge 100 of the aerosol generating device 1 can approach and be combined with the main body 200 from the side (eg, the x-axis direction) of the main body 200. However, the direction in which the cartridge 100 is combined is not limited thereto.

[0148] When the cigarette cartridge 100 is combined with the main body 200, if the space where the vibration unit 140 is located is larger than the vibration unit 140, the vibration unit 140 may not be able to contact the cigarette cartridge 100. In this case, the vibration generated by the vibration unit 140 may be transmitted to the cigarette cartridge 100 through other components of the main body 200. During the vibration transmission process, if the vibration needs to pass through many other components, the vibration energy may be significantly lost before the vibration is transmitted to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0149] Therefore, when the vibration part 140 fails to directly contact the cigarette cartridge 100, a structure is needed that directly connects the vibration part 140 and the cigarette cartridge 100 without hindering the connection of the cigarette cartridge 100 with respect to the main body 200, thereby being able to transmit vibration without causing a large loss of vibration energy.

[0150] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a compression pad 150. The compression pad 150 may be a pad that can be compressed when pressurized. The compression pad 150 is combined with the vibration unit 140 and can transmit the vibration generated by the vibration unit 140 to other structures in contact with the compression pad 150 without losing vibration energy. For example, when the cigarette cartridge 100 is combined with the main body 200, the compression pad 150 can contact the cigarette cartridge 100 and transmit the vibration of the vibration unit 140 to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0151] The expression "no vibration energy loss occurs" not only means that vibration energy is preserved during the transmission of vibrations through the compression pad 150, but also means that the amount of vibration energy lost is small. In this case, the compression pad can be made of a variety of materials that are easily compressed and have a small vibration energy loss when transmitting vibrations.

[0152] Reference Figure 10a , shows the state where the cigarette cartridge 100 is separated from the main body 200, and the compression pad 150 is not compressed. Figure 10b , showing a state in which the cartridge 100 is combined with the main body 200 and the compression pad 150 is pressurized by the cartridge 100 in the +x direction.

[0153] In the absence of the compression pad 150, the vibration part 140 may not be able to directly contact the cigarette cartridge 100, but due to the presence of the compression pad 150, the vibration part 140 and the cigarette cartridge 100 can be connected to each other via the compression pad 150, so that the vibration can be easily transmitted from the vibration part 140 to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0154] In addition, the compression pad is not only applicable to the case where the vibration part 140 is arranged at the peripheral portion of the coupling member 240, but also applicable to the case where the vibration part 140 is arranged in a groove (for example: Figure 7b The groove 220 in the middle) fails to directly contact the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0155] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0156] Figure 11 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown may be Figure 9 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0157] Reference Figure 11 According to another embodiment, the main body 200 of the aerosol generating device 1 may include: a sealing portion 205 , which is disposed at a portion where the generating portion 120 of the cigarette cartridge 100 connects with the airflow path 204 of the main body 200 .

[0158] The sealing portion 205 seals the connection between the generating unit 120 of the cigarette cartridge and the airflow path 204 of the main body 200. The sealing portion 205 prevents the aerosol in the generating unit 120 from leaking into spaces other than the airflow path 204 during its movement toward the airflow path 204 of the main body 200.

[0159] At this time, due to the size of the sealing portion 205, there may be excess space between the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100. The vibrating portion 140 can be arranged around the sealing portion 205. The vibrating portion 140, arranged adjacent to the sealing portion 205, can be located in the excess space without obstructing the connection between the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100, while also being arranged adjacent to the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0160] On the other hand, the vibration of the vibrating unit 140 may affect the sealing structure used to prevent liquid leakage and leaks. For example, the vibration may cause the sealing unit 205 to shake, which may weaken the airflow path 204 and the connection between the generating unit 120 and the sealing unit 205. This may cause liquid leakage and leaks.

[0161] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an elastic member 160. The elastic member 160 may connect the main body 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100. The elastic member 160 may buffer vibrations, thereby preventing the sealing structure from being weakened. Furthermore, since the elastic member 160 connects the main body 200 equipped with the vibrating unit 140 and the cigarette cartridge 100, stable vibration of the cigarette cartridge 100 can be ensured.

[0162] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to yet another embodiment.

[0163] Figure 12 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown may be Figure 9 At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0164] Reference Figure 12 According to another embodiment of the aerosol generating device 1, the cartridge 100 can be rotatably coupled to the main body 200 within a predetermined range. The rotatable coupling can be implemented in various ways. For example, the cartridge 100 can rotate relative to the main body 200 by rotating a link member connected to the cartridge 100 about a rotation axis included in the main body 200.

[0165] The vibration unit (not shown) can rotate the cartridge 100 relative to the main body 200 within a preset range. In this case, the "preset range" may refer to the angular range within which the cartridge 100 rotates with the y-axis as the rotation center.

[0166] It is desirable to prevent the components of the main body 200 from being damaged by pressure due to the rotation of the cartridge 100 relative to the main body 200. An elastic member 160 can be disposed between the main body 200 and the cartridge 100 to absorb pressure caused by vibration and protect the components. The elastic member 160 can support the cartridge 100 in the vibration direction (i.e., the z-axis direction) due to the rotation of the cartridge 100.

[0167] By rotating the cigarette cartridge 100 relative to the main body 200 within a preset range, the cigarette cartridge 100 can be rotated in the vertical direction (for example, the length direction of the cigarette cartridge, Figure 12 The vertical vibration of the cigarette cartridge 100 can effectively remove bubbles in the inflow portion 135.

[0168] Figure 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0169] Reference Figure 13 According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include: a generating unit 310 , a vibrating unit 320 , a controlling unit 330 , a detecting unit 340 , a memory 350 and a user interface 360 .

[0170] Figure 13 The generating unit 310 and the vibrating unit 320 shown can be used with Figures 5a to 12 The illustrated generating section 120 and the vibrating section 140 are identical, and repeated descriptions will be omitted below.

[0171] The control unit 330 can control the operation of the vibration unit 320. The control unit 330 can not only control the generation of vibrations in the vibration unit 320 but also control the vibration unit 320 in various aspects related to vibrations, such as the intensity of the vibrations.

[0172] The control unit can control the vibration unit to vibrate in certain situations, thereby providing the user with a satisfying inhalation experience. For example, the control unit 330 can control the vibration unit 320 to vibrate after the generator 310 is preheated. This eliminates air bubbles in the inflow unit 135 before the user begins inhaling, ensuring a sufficient amount of atomization.

[0173] In this case, as an example of how to determine "after preheating is complete," when the temperature of generator 310 rises to a preset temperature, the temperature sensor of detector 340 generates a signal, and controller 330 can use this signal to determine that preheating of generator 310 is complete. Alternatively, controller 330 can determine that preheating of generator 310 is complete when power is supplied to generator 310 for a preset period of time.

[0174] As another example, the control unit 330 can control the vibration unit 320 to vibrate after a preset number of puffs. This removes bubbles in the inflow unit 135 even while the user is inhaling, ensuring a sufficient amount of atomization. In this case, when the puff sensing sensor of the detection unit 340 detects the user's puff, it generates a signal, which the control unit 330 can use to count the number of puffs.

[0175] As another example, the control unit 330 can control the vibration unit 320 to vibrate after the puff is completed. This can ultimately remove bubbles generated in the inflow unit 135 during a previous puff and prepare for the next puff. In this case, the criteria for determining "puff completion" may include, but are not limited to, the number of puffs, the operating time of the generation unit, and the like.

[0176] The user can manually control the movement of the vibration unit 320. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment may further include a switch (not shown). The switch may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 for user operation and may be a component included in the user interface 360.

[0177] The user can operate a switch electrically connected to the control unit 330 to activate the control unit 330 and control the movement of the vibration unit 320. Thus, if the user feels that the amount of atomization has decreased during smoking, they can operate the switch to generate vibrations to remove bubbles in the inflow portion 135. In this case, the user can also adjust the intensity of the vibration by operating the switch.

[0178] On the other hand, the problem of reduced atomization volume is not only caused by the generation of bubbles in the inflow section 135 that hinder the movement of the aerosol generating material, but may also include various reasons such as the aerosol generating material stored in the storage section 110 being exhausted, resulting in insufficient aerosol generating material flowing into the generating section 310.

[0179] When the generation of bubbles causes a problem of reduced atomization volume, the problem can be solved by vibration based on the vibration unit. However, when the depletion of aerosol-generating substances causes a problem of reduced atomization volume, even if vibration is generated in the vibration unit, the problem cannot be solved.

[0180] To distinguish between the two situations, the aerosol generating device 1 may detect whether an aerosol generating substance exists in the generating portion 310 through the detecting portion 340. The detecting portion 340 may generate a signal according to a change in the amount of the aerosol generating substance in the generating portion 310.

[0181] For example, the detection unit 340 may generate a signal whose magnitude varies linearly with the amount of aerosol-forming substance present in the generation unit 310. Furthermore, the detection unit 340 may generate a signal when the aerosol-forming substance present in the generation unit 310 decreases below a predetermined value. In this case, the "predetermined value" is a reference value for determining the absence of an aerosol-forming substance in the generation unit 310, and may be a value preset in the memory 350.

[0182] As an example of a specific method for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming substance, detection unit 340 may generate a signal based on the temperature of the atomizing element of generation unit 310. When the aerosol-forming substance is depleted, causing generation unit 310 to be heated to a high temperature, control unit 330 may detect the presence of the aerosol-forming substance based on the signal from detection unit 340.

[0183] In another example, a detection unit 340 comprising a fixed resistor connected in parallel with the atomizing element can be used to detect the presence of an aerosol-forming substance. In this case, the resistance of the fixed resistor does not change with the temperature of the atomizing element and can be configured solely for detecting the presence of an aerosol-forming substance.

[0184] Depending on whether aerosol-generating substances are absorbed by the liquid transfer unit of the generation unit 310, the temperature of the atomizing element disposed in the liquid transfer unit may vary. In this case, if the atomizing element includes a resistor with a temperature coefficient of resistance, the resistance of the resistor may change with changes in the atomizing element's temperature. Consequently, the voltage difference across the resistor may change with changes in the atomizing element's temperature.

[0185] The control unit 330 may determine whether the aerosol generating substance is present in the generating unit 310 based on the detecting unit 340 that generates a signal based on the voltage difference between the two ends of the resistor of the atomizing element or the two ends of the fixed resistor.

[0186] Specifically, the control unit 330 may analyze the result value corresponding to the voltage difference between both ends of the resistor by referring to a lookup table stored in the memory 350 , and determine whether the aerosol-forming substance exists.

[0187] The method of detecting the presence of the aerosol-generating substance is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and may include various methods capable of detecting whether the aerosol-generating substance exists in the generating unit 310 .

[0188] When the presence or absence of the aerosol-generating substance in the generating unit 310 is determined by the control unit 330 , the control unit 330 may transmit a signal including a result value related to the presence or absence of the aerosol-generating substance to the generating unit 310 .

[0189] Furthermore, the control unit 330 may also control other structures of the aerosol generating device 1 based on the result regarding the presence or absence of the aerosol generating substance.

[0190] For example, the control unit 330 can control the atomization operation of the generator 310 based on the signal generated by the detector 340. If the control unit 330 determines that there is no aerosol-generating substance in the generator 310, the control unit 330 can control the generator 310 to interrupt atomization by the generator 310. In this way, smoking can be interrupted.

[0191] Furthermore, the control unit 330 may transmit a notification signal notifying the user of the depletion of the aerosol generating material through the user interface 360. In this way, the user may recognize that the decrease in the amount of atomization is due to the depletion of the aerosol generating material and replace the storage unit 110.

[0192] The memory 350 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1. The memory 350 can store data processed by the control unit 330 and data to be processed. For example, the memory 350 can store preset data. Specifically, the memory 350 can store data related to the presence or absence of aerosol-generating substances in the generating unit (the aforementioned "lookup table").

[0193] The user interface 360 can provide the user with information related to the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The user interface 360 may include various interface units, such as a display or light that outputs visual information, a motor that outputs tactile information, a speaker that outputs sound information, a terminal for communicating data with an input / output (I / O) interface unit (e.g., a button or a touch screen) that receives information input from the user or outputs information to the user, or for receiving charging power, and a communication interface module for performing wireless communication with external devices (e.g., Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, Near-Field Communication (NFC), etc.).

[0194] The aerosol generating device 1 may select only a portion of the various user interfaces 360 examples illustrated above to implement them.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a feedback generator (not shown) that provides feedback to the user regarding the use of the aerosol generating device 1 by vibrating the aerosol generating device 1. The feedback generator may include various vibration-inducing components such as a motor. The feedback generator may be a structure included in the user interface 360.

[0196] In addition to providing feedback to the user, the feedback generating portion may also perform a function of removing bubbles existing in the inflow portion 135 instead of the vibration portion 320 .

[0197] Figure 14 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1400 according to another embodiment.

[0198] The aerosol generating device 1400 may include a control unit 1410, a detection unit 1420, an output unit 1430, a battery 1440, a heater 1450, a user input unit 1460, a memory 1470, and a communication unit 1080. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1400 is not limited to Figure 14 That is, those skilled in the art in the art related to this embodiment can understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1400, Figure 14 Part of the shown structures may be omitted, or new structures may be added.

[0199] The detection unit 1420 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1400 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1400 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 1410. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1410 can control the aerosol generating device 1400 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater 1450, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol-generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cigarette cartridge, etc.) has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0200] The detection portion 1420 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 1422 , an insertion sensing sensor 1424 , and a suction sensor 1426 , but is not limited thereto.

[0201] The temperature sensor 1422 can sense the temperature at which the heater 1450 (or the aerosol-generating material) is heated. The aerosol-generating device 1400 can include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 1450, or the heater 1450 itself can function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 1422 can be positioned around the battery 1440 to monitor the temperature of the battery 1440.

[0202] The insertion sensing sensor 1424 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 1424 can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can sense a signal change corresponding to the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article.

[0203] The puff sensor 1426 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 1426 can sense the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow rate change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0204] In addition to the aforementioned sensors ( 1422 to 1426 ), the detection unit 1420 may also include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name, a detailed description may be omitted.

[0205] The output unit 1430 can output information related to the status of the aerosol generating device 1400 and provide it to the user. The output unit 1430 can include at least one of a display unit 1432, a tactile unit 1434, and an audio output unit 1436, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 1432 and the touch panel are layered to form a touch screen, the display unit 1432 can function as both an output device and an input device.

[0206] The display unit 1432 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 1400 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1400 can include various information, such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 1440, the preheating status of the heater 1450, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol-generating article, or the state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 1400 is restricted (e.g., sensing an abnormal article). The display unit 1432 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display unit 1432 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. Furthermore, the display unit 1432 can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

[0207] The haptic portion 1434 may convert the electrical signal into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation and provide the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 1400 in a tactile manner. For example, the haptic portion 1434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0208] The audio output unit 1436 can provide the user with information related to the aerosol generating device 1400 in an auditory manner. For example, the audio output unit 1436 can convert an electrical signal into an audio signal and output the audio signal to the outside.

[0209] The battery 1440 can supply power to the aerosol generating device 1400. The battery 1440 can also supply power to the heater 1450 to heat it. Furthermore, the battery 1440 can also supply power required for the operation of other components within the aerosol generating device 1400 (e.g., the detection unit 1420, the output unit 1430, the user input unit 1460, the memory 1470, and the communication unit 1080). The battery 1440 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1440 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0210] The heater 1450 may receive power from the battery 1440 to heat the aerosol-generating substance. Figure 14 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1400 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 1440 and supplies it to the heater 1450. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device 1400 generates aerosol using induction heating, the aerosol generating device 1400 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 1440 into AC power.

[0211] The control unit 1410, the detection unit 1420, the output unit 1430, the user input unit 1460, the memory 1470, and the communication unit 1080 may receive power from the battery 1440 to perform their functions. Figure 14 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1400 may further include a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 1440 and supplies it to each component.

[0212] In one embodiment, heater 1450 can be made of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials can include metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nickel-chromium alloys, but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, heater 1450 can be implemented by, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate equipped with conductive tracks, or a ceramic heating element.

[0213] In another embodiment, the heater 1450 may be an induction heating heater, for example, the heater 1450 may include a susceptor that generates heat by applying a magnetic field to the aerosol-generating substance.

[0214] The user input unit 1460 may receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 1460 may include a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (contact capacitance method, pressure resistance film method, infrared sensing method, surface ultrasonic wave conduction method, integral tension measurement method, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, although Figure 14 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1400 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and connect to other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 1440.

[0215] Memory 1470 is hardware that stores various data processed within aerosol generating device 1400. It can store data processed by control unit 1410 as well as data to be processed. Memory 1470 can include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card microtype, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 1470 can store data such as the actuation time of aerosol generating device 1400, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0216] The communication unit 1080 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 1080 may include a short-range communication unit 1482 and a wireless communication unit 1484.

[0217] The short-range wireless communication unit 1082 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field communication unit (NFC), a WLAN (Wi-Fi, wireless local area network) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared communication unit (IrDA), a Wi-Fi Direct communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0218] The wireless communication unit 1484 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 1484 may also use subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to verify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1400 within the communication network.

[0219] The control unit 1410 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1400. In one embodiment, the control unit 1410 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented by a plurality of logic gate arrays or a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0220] The control unit 1410 can control the temperature of the heater 1450 by controlling the battery 1440 to supply power to the heater 1450. For example, the control unit 1410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 1440 and the heater 1450. As another example, a direct heating circuit can control the power supply to the heater 1450 according to control instructions from the control unit 1410.

[0221] The control unit 1410 can analyze the results sensed by the detection unit 1420 and control subsequent processing to be performed. For example, the control unit 1410 can control the power supplied to the heater 1450 based on the results sensed by the detection unit 1420 to start or end the operation of the heater 1450. As another example, the control unit 1410 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 1450 and the duration of the power supply based on the results sensed by the detection unit 1420 so that the heater 1450 is heated to a specified temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0222] The control unit 1410 may control the output unit 1430 based on the result sensed by the detection unit 1420. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 1426 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 1410 may notify the user through at least one of the display unit 1432, the tactile unit 1434, and the audio output unit 1436 that the aerosol generating device 1400 is about to end.

[0223] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium (e.g., a program module executed by a computer) that includes instructions that can be executed by a computer. Computer-readable media can be any available media that is accessible to a computer, including volatile and non-volatile media, detachable and inseparable media. In addition, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, detachable and inseparable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (e.g., computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, other data in a modulated data signal such as a program module, or other transmission mechanism, and include any information transmission medium.

[0224] The description of the above embodiments is for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments may be obtained. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the present invention shall be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of equivalence with the contents described in the appended claims shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of protection determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, in, include: a storage portion for storing aerosol-generating substances; a generating unit for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substance; an inflow portion fluidically connecting the storage portion and the generation portion; and The vibrating portion generates vibration to transmit the vibration to the inflow portion.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The inflow portion is arranged on at least one surface of the storage portion, The vibrating portion is arranged adjacent to the inflow portion on the one surface of the storage portion.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: The connecting portion is arranged between the storage portion and the generating portion and includes the inflow portion; the vibrating portion is arranged in the connecting portion.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A cigarette cartridge, accommodating the storage portion, the inflow portion, and the generation portion; The vibration part is arranged on the outer surface of the cigarette cartridge.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: a cigarette cartridge, accommodating the storage portion, the inflow portion, the generation portion, and a main body including the vibration portion; The vibration part is arranged adjacent to the cigarette cartridge.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The subject also includes: A supporting portion, supporting the cigarette cartridge; The vibrating portion is disposed on the supporting portion.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The subject also includes: An installation space extending toward the cigarette cartridge to accommodate the cigarette cartridge; The vibrating portion is disposed in the installation space.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The cigarette cartridge is detachably coupled to the main body; The subject also includes: a combining member protruding toward the cigarette cartridge to combine with the cigarette cartridge; The vibrating portion is arranged adjacent to the coupling member.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The cigarette cartridge is detachably coupled to the main body; The aerosol generating device further comprises: A compression pad is combined with the vibration part. When the cigarette cartridge is combined with the main body, the compression pad contacts the cigarette cartridge to transmit the vibration of the vibration part to the cigarette cartridge.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The cigarette cartridge is detachably coupled to the main body; The aerosol generating device further comprises: One or more elastic components connect the main body and the cigarette cartridge.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein: The cigarette cartridge is rotatably coupled to the main body within a preset range.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: a control unit for controlling the operation of the vibration unit; The control unit controls the vibration unit so that the vibration unit vibrates after preheating of the generating unit is completed.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: a control unit for controlling the operation of the vibration unit; The control unit controls the vibration unit so that the vibration unit vibrates every predetermined number of puffs.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: a detection unit that generates a signal according to a change in the amount of the aerosol-generating substance present in the generation unit, and a control unit for controlling the operation of the generating unit; The control unit controls the operation of the generation unit based on the signal generated in the detection unit.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: The feedback generating unit generates vibrations to vibrate the aerosol generating device, thereby providing feedback to the user.

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