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

Abstract

The heater assembly for an aerosol-generating device comprises: a heater which forms an accommodation space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article and heats the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space; and a heater placement part which is connected to the heater so as to cause aerosol generated by an aerosol-generating substance to flow toward the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space, and which is formed by insert injection molding with the heater.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device capable of preventing aerosol from leaking through a gap between a heater and a heater placement portion, and an aerosol generating device including the same. Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for technologies that can replace the combustion of conventional cigarettes to deliver aerosols. For example, research is underway into methods that generate aerosols from liquid or solid aerosol-generating substances, or generate vapor from a liquid aerosol-generating substance and then pass the generated vapor through a solid flavoring medium to deliver a flavored aerosol.

[0003] An example of an aerosol-generating device may include an aerosol-generating device that uses an aerosol-generating article and a cartridge containing a liquid aerosol-generating substance. Compared to aerosol-generating devices that use solid aerosol-generating substances, aerosol-generating devices that use liquid aerosol-generating substances have advantages in convenience, such as being small and portable, and not producing smoking byproducts. Consequently, interest in aerosol-generating devices that use liquid aerosol-generating substances to generate aerosols is increasing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] In an aerosol generating device that uses an aerosol generating article and a liquid aerosol generating substance together, aerosol is generated by mixing vapor generated by heating the liquid aerosol generating substance with air flowing in from the outside, and the generated aerosol can be inhaled by the user through the aerosol generating article.

[0006] To this end, the aerosol generating device may include: a chamber providing a space for aerosol-generating substances in a liquid state to be generated into aerosol; a heater for heating an aerosol-generating article; and a heater placement portion for placing the heater and communicating with the chamber.

[0007] At this time, during the process of the aerosol generated in the chamber being delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article, at least a portion of the aerosol may come into contact with the air and be cooled and liquefied, and the liquefied aerosol may leak through the gap between the heater and the heater placement portion.

[0008] In this case, liquefied aerosol may leak and accumulate inside the aerosol generating device, potentially causing malfunction or damage to components of the aerosol generating device. Furthermore, leakage reduces the amount of aerosol passing through the aerosol-generating article, potentially reducing the amount of aerosol available to the user.

[0009] An embodiment provides a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device including the same, which can prevent the components of the aerosol generating device from malfunctioning or being damaged by preventing aerosol from leaking through the gap between the heater and the heater placement portion, and increase the amount of aerosol that can be inhaled by the user.

[0010] Problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned problems, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field to which the embodiments pertain through the specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0011] Means used to solve problems

[0012] According to one embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may include: a heater, which forms a storage space for accommodating an aerosol generating article and heats the aerosol generating article accommodated in the storage space; and a heater placement portion, which is connected to the heater so that an aerosol generated by an aerosol generating substance flows toward the aerosol generating article accommodated in the storage space, and is manufactured together with the heater by insert injection molding.

[0013] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include: a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, which accommodates the aerosol generating article and heats the aerosol generating article; and a cigarette cartridge, which stores the aerosol generating substance and is connected to the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device so that the generated aerosol moves toward the aerosol generating article.

[0014] Effects of the Invention

[0015] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can prevent components from malfunctioning or being damaged, and can increase the amount of aerosol that can be inhaled by a user.

[0016] Effects according to the technical idea of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 and Figure 2 1 is a diagram showing the insertion of an aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating device.

[0018] Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article inserted therein according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 The cap and the aerosol generating device body are shown in a disassembled state. Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating device.

[0021] Figure 7 The cigarette cartridge and the aerosol generating device are shown in a disassembled state. Figure 6 Exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating device.

[0022] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Block diagram of the cartridge shown.

[0023] Figure 9 1 is a combined three-dimensional diagram of a heater assembly, a cigarette cartridge, and an aerosol generating device body for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 10 An aerosol generating device according to an embodiment Figure 5 Front cross-sectional view of line II cutting.

[0025] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 1 , used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device including a protrusion.

[0026] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 1 , used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device including an extension portion.

[0027] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG. 1 , used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device comprising a first extension portion and a second extension portion.

[0028] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 An enlarged view of part A of FIG. 1 is used to illustrate a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device including a sealing ring.

[0029] Figure 15 yes Figure 101 is an enlarged view of part A of FIG. 1 , used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device in which the inner surface of the heater and the inner surface of the heater placement portion are arranged to be spaced apart.

[0030] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of part A of , used to illustrate another embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device.

[0031] Figure 17 yes Figure 10 FIG1 is an enlarged view of part B of FIG1 , used to illustrate another embodiment of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device.

[0032] Figure 18 1 and 2 are diagrams showing modified examples of the coupling structure between the heater and the heater placement portion.

[0033] Figure 19 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0035] According to one embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may include: a heater, which forms a storage space for accommodating an aerosol generating article and heats the aerosol generating article accommodated in the storage space; and a heater placement portion, which is connected to the heater so that an aerosol generated by an aerosol generating substance flows toward the aerosol generating article accommodated in the storage space, and the heater placement portion and the heater are made by insert injection molding.

[0036] The heater and the heater placement portion may be formed integrally.

[0037] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a protrusion in which at least either the heater or the heater placement portion protrudes toward the other.

[0038] The heater may include an extension portion, wherein the extension portion extends in a direction transverse to a direction in which the heater placement portion extends.

[0039] The heater placement portion may be connected to the heater in such a manner as to surround the entire outer side of the extension portion.

[0040] An inner surface of the heater facing the accommodation space and an inner surface of the heater placement portion facing the accommodation space may be connected as a continuous surface.

[0041] The heater may include a first extending portion extending in a second direction transverse to a first direction in which the heater placement portion extends; and a second extending portion extending from the first extending portion in the first direction.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device may further include a sealing ring configured to surround the heater and the heater placement portion.

[0043] The heater may extend in a direction in which the heater placement portion extends and may be formed by insert injection molding with the heater placement portion.

[0044] The heater may include a film that generates heat by applying electricity to the film; and a heat transfer pipe that is located inside the film and transfers the heat generated by the film to the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space.

[0045] The heat transfer pipe may be insert-injection-molded with the heater placement portion.

[0046] The heater placement portion may include an aerosol inflow hole connected to a chamber serving as a space for generating the aerosol.

[0047] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device may include: a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, configured to accommodate the aerosol generating article and heat the aerosol generating article; and a cigarette cartridge, configured to store the aerosol generating substance and connected to the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device so that the generated aerosol moves toward the aerosol generating article.

[0048] The cigarette cartridge may include: a storage portion for storing the aerosol-generating substance; a heating portion for absorbing the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion to heat the aerosol-generating substance; and a chamber for accommodating the heating portion and providing a space for generating the aerosol.

[0049] The aerosol generated in the cigarette cartridge can be discharged to the outside through the aerosol generating article accommodated in the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

[0050] The terms used in the embodiments are selected from currently widely used general terms, taking into account the functions of the present invention. However, this may vary depending on the intentions of technicians in the field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are also terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant. In such cases, their meanings will be detailed in the description of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not simply the names of the terms, but should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0051] Throughout this specification, when a section "includes" a certain component, this means that other components may also be included, rather than excluding them, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, terms such as "unit" and "module" used in this specification refer to a unit that performs at least one function or action, which may be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0052] As used in this specification, when expressions such as "at least one" precede a list of constituent elements, they modify all of the constituent elements rather than each individual constituent being listed. 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.

[0053] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in an internal space.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The heater may include a tubular heating element, a plate heating element, a needle heating element, or a rod heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0056] A cigarette may include a tobacco rod and a filter rod. The tobacco rod may be made of a sheet, a strand, or shredded tobacco. Furthermore, the tobacco rod may be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0057] The filter rod may be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may be composed of more than one section. For example, the filter rod may include: a first section for cooling the aerosol; and a second section for filtering the specified components included in the aerosol.

[0058] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol by using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0059] The aerosol-generating device may include a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge may 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 to prevent disassembly by the user. The cartridge may be mounted on the 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 body.

[0060] The cartridge can contain an aerosol-forming substance in any of various states, such as a liquid, solid, gas, or gel. The aerosol-forming substance can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance having a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0061] The cartridge can be operated by an electrical signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main body, so that the phase of the aerosol-generating substance inside the cartridge is transformed into a gas phase, thereby performing the function of generating an aerosol. Aerosol can refer to a gas in a mixed state of vaporized particles generated by the aerosol-generating substance and air.

[0062] In yet another embodiment, an aerosol-generating device may generate an aerosol by heating a liquid composition, and the generated aerosol may be delivered to a user via a cigarette. 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.

[0063] 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, the ultrasonic vibration method may refer to a method of generating aerosol by atomizing the aerosol-generating substance through ultrasonic vibrations generated by an oscillator.

[0064] The aerosol generating device may include an oscillator, and the oscillator may generate short-period vibrations 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 about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz, but is not limited thereto.

[0065] 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 oscillator, or may be configured to be in contact with at least one region of the oscillator.

[0066] When a voltage (e.g., an AC 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 converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transferred from the oscillator, resulting in the generation of an aerosol.

[0067] For example, the viscosity of the aerosol generating substance absorbed into the core may be reduced by heat generated by the oscillator, and the aerosol generating substance having a reduced viscosity may be turned into fine particles by ultrasonic vibrations generated by the oscillator, thereby generating aerosol, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] 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 through electromagnetic induction heating.

[0069] The 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 within the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor may be a magnetic body that generates heat when an external magnetic field is applied. The susceptor is located within the coil and, when the magnetic field is applied, generates heat, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the susceptor may be located within the aerosol-generating article.

[0070] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a cradle.

[0071] The aerosol generating device can be combined with a separate stand to form a system. For example, the stand can charge the battery of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the heater can heat the aerosol generating device while the stand and the aerosol generating device are combined.

[0072] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described 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 an achievable form in the aerosol generating devices of the various embodiments described above or in various different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0073] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0074] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the aerosol-generating article being inserted into the aerosol-generating device.

[0075] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 10, a processor 20, a heater 30, and a vaporizer 40. In addition, an aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the inner space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0076] although Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol-generating device 1 shown includes a vaporizer, but the embodiments are not limited to this implementation of the aerosol-generating device, and the aerosol-generating device 1 may omit the vaporizer 40. If the vaporizer 40 is omitted from the aerosol-generating device 1, the aerosol-generating article 2 includes an aerosol-generating substance so that an aerosol can be generated by the aerosol-generating article 2 when the aerosol-generating article 2 is heated by the heater 30.

[0077] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown in the figure shows the components related to this embodiment. Therefore, a person skilled in the art of the present embodiment can understand that except for Figure 1 and Figure 2 In addition to the components shown, other common components may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0078] In addition, despite Figure 1 and Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 is shown to include a heater 30 , but the heater 30 may be omitted as needed.

[0079] exist Figure 1 1 shows that the battery 10, the processor 20, the vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 are arranged in a row. Figure 2 The vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 are shown to be arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 1 or Figure 2 In other words, the arrangement of the battery 10, the processor 20, the vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 may vary depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0080] When the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1, the aerosol-generating device 1 may operate the vaporizer 40 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 is delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. The vaporizer 40 will be described in more detail below.

[0081] The battery 10 supplies power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery 10 can supply power to heat the heater 30 or the vaporizer 40, and can also supply power required for the operation of the processor 20. In addition, the battery 10 can supply power required for the operation of the display, sensors, motors, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0082] The processor 20 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the processor 20 controls the operation of the battery 10, the heater 30, the vaporizer 40, and other components of the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the processor 20 can determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state by confirming the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0083] The processor 20 includes at least one processor. The processor can be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor can also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0084] The heater 30 can be heated by the power supplied from the battery 10. For example, when the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1, the heater 30 can be located outside the aerosol-generating article 2. Therefore, the heated heater 30 can increase the temperature of the aerosol-generating substance in the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0085] The heater 30 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 30 may include a conductive track, and as current flows through the conductive track, the heater 30 is heated. However, the heater 30 is not limited to the above example; any heater 30 may be used as long as it can heat to a desired temperature. The desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generating device 1 or set by the user.

[0086] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 30 may be an electromagnetic induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 30 may include a conductive coil for heating the aerosol generating substance by electromagnetic induction heating, and the aerosol generating substance may include a susceptor that can be heated by the electromagnetic induction heating heater.

[0087] although Figure 1 and Figure 2 The heater 30 is shown as being disposed outside the aerosol-generating article 2, but is not limited thereto. For example, the heater 30 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 aerosol-generating article 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0088] Furthermore, a plurality of heaters 30 may be provided in the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the plurality of heaters 30 may be provided so as to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 or may be provided outside the aerosol generating article 2. Furthermore, some of the plurality of heaters 30 may be provided so as to be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2, and the remaining heaters may be provided outside the aerosol generating article 2. Furthermore, the shape of the heater 30 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The shape shown, and can be made into various shapes.

[0089] The vaporizer 40 can generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 can move along the airflow channel of the aerosol-generating device 1, and the airflow channel can be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 to be delivered to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0090] For example, the vaporizer 40 may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid transfer device, and a heating element, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage portion, the liquid transfer device, and the heating element may also be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0091] The liquid storage unit can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid containing a tobacco substance having volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage unit can be detachable from and attachable to the vaporizer 40, or can be integrally formed with the vaporizer 40.

[0092] For example, the liquid composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, 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 agent may include ingredients that can provide a variety of aromas or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may be mixed with at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited to this. In addition, the liquid composition may include an aerosol former such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0093] The liquid transfer device can transfer the liquid phase composition of the liquid storage part to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer device can be a wick of cotton fiber core, ceramic fiber core, glass fiber core, porous ceramic core, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0094] The heating element is used to heat the liquid composition being transferred via the liquid transfer device. For example, the heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, or the like, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the heating element may be composed of a conductive wire such as a nickel-chromium alloy wire and may be configured to be wrapped around the liquid transfer device. The heating element can be heated by supplying an electric current and transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0095] For example, the vaporizer 40 may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0096] On the other hand, in addition to the battery 10, processor 20, heater 30, and vaporizer 40, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include other common configurations. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display that can output visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, an aerosol-generating article insertion sensor, etc.). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may be constructed to allow external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted.

[0097] Despite Figure 1 and Figure 2 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 can also form a system together with a separate stand. For example, the stand is used to charge the battery 10 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 30 can be used for heating when the stand and the aerosol generating device 1 are combined.

[0098] The aerosol-generating article 2 can be similar to a conventional combustion-type cigarette. For example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating substance can also be included in the second portion of the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the aerosol-generating substance in the form of particles or capsules can be inserted into the second portion.

[0099] The entire first portion is inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1, and the second portion may be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first portion may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating device 1, or portions of the first portion and the second portion may be inserted therein. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second portion in their mouth. In this case, aerosol is generated by external air passing through the first portion, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth through the second portion.

[0100] As an example, external air can flow in through at least one air channel formed in the aerosol-generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air channel formed in the aerosol-generating device 1 and / or the size of the air channel can be adjusted by the user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, the smoking experience, and the like. As another example, external air can also flow into the interior of the aerosol-generating article 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0101] Below, we will refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 An example of the aerosol-generating article 2 will be described.

[0102] Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol-generating article.

[0103] Reference Figure 3 , the aerosol generating article 2 comprises a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first part depicted comprises a tobacco rod 21 and the second part comprises a filter rod 22 .

[0104] although Figure 3 The filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but 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 first segment for cooling the aerosol and a second segment for filtering the specified components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may also include at least one segment performing other functions, as needed.

[0105] The aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged using at least one packaging unit 24. The packaging unit 24 can have at least one hole formed therein to allow external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. As an example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged using a single packaging unit 24. As another example, the aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged using two or more packaging units 24 in an overlapping manner. For example, a tobacco rod 21 can be packaged using a first packaging unit 24a, and a filter rod 22 can be packaged using packaging units 24b, 24c, and 24d. Furthermore, the entire aerosol-generating article 2 can be packaged again using a single packaging unit 24e. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment can be packaged using packaging units 24b, 24c, and 24d.

[0106] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include at least one of, but is not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. Furthermore, the tobacco rod 21 may contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying the mixture onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0107] The tobacco rod 21 can be made into various forms. For example, the tobacco rod 21 can be made of a sheet or a strand. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can also be made of shredded tobacco obtained by cutting tobacco sheets into fine pieces. In addition, the tobacco rod 21 can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. As an example, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly disperse the heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21 to increase the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. In addition, the heat-conducting material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can be used as a receptor heated by an electromagnetic induction heating heater. At this time, although not shown in the figure, the tobacco rod 21 can also include an additional receptor in addition to the heat-conducting material surrounding its outside.

[0108] The filter rod 22 may 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 may be a cylindrical rod. Alternatively, it may be a tubular rod having a hollow interior. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may be a concave rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be made into other shapes.

[0109] The filter rod 22 can be made to produce a scent. As an example, a scenting liquid can be sprayed on the filter rod 22, or a separate fiber coated with the scenting liquid can be inserted into the interior of the filter rod 22.

[0110] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Capsule 23 may generate a fragrance or aerosol. For example, capsule 23 may be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped in a film. Capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0111] If the filter rod 22 includes a segment for cooling the aerosol, the cooling segment can be made of a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material. For example, the cooling segment can be made solely of pure polylactic acid, but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the cooling segment can be made of a porous cellulose acetate filter. However, the cooling segment is not limited to the above examples and can be used in any application as long as it can perform the function of cooling the aerosol.

[0112] Reference Figure 4 The aerosol generating material 3 may further include a front plug 33. The front plug 33 may be located on the side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite to the filter rod 32. The front plug 33 may prevent the tobacco rod 31 from escaping to the outside and may prevent the liquid-phase aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device ( Figures 1 to 2 1).

[0113] The filter rod 32 may include a first section 321 and a second section 322. The first section 321 may correspond to Figure 3 The first section of the filter rod 22, and the second section 322 may correspond to Figure 3 The third section of the filter rod 22.

[0114] The diameter and total length of the aerosol-generating article 3 may correspond to Figure 3 The diameter and total length of the aerosol-generating article 2 may be determined by the method of claim 1. For example, the length of the front plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first section 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second section 322 may be about 14 mm, but are not limited thereto.

[0115] The aerosol-generating article 3 may be packaged using at least one packaging unit 35. The packaging unit 35 may have at least one hole formed therein to allow air to flow in or gas to flow out. For example, the front end plug 33 may be packaged using a first packaging unit 35a, the tobacco rod 31 may be packaged using a second packaging unit 35b, the first segment 321 may be packaged using a third packaging unit 35c, and the second segment 322 may be packaged using a fourth packaging unit 35d.

[0116] Alternatively, the entire aerosol-generating article 3 may be repackaged using a fifth packaging unit 35e. Furthermore, at least one through-hole 36 may be formed in the fifth packaging unit 35e. For example, the through-hole 36 may be formed in the region wrapping the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The through-hole 36 may serve to separate the aerosol-generating article 3 from the tobacco rod 31. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The heater 30 shown has the effect of transferring heat generated to the interior of the tobacco rod 31 .

[0117] Furthermore, the second section 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Capsule 34 may generate fragrance or aerosol. For example, capsule 34 may be a structure in which a liquid containing fragrance is encapsulated in a thin film. Capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0118] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions such as computer-executable program modules. Computer-readable media can be any available media that is accessible to a computer and includes volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. In addition, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and / or other data. Communication media generally include other data or other transmission mechanisms of modulated data signals of computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc., and include any information transfer media.

[0119] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device 1 and an aerosol-generating article 2 inserted therein according to one embodiment.

[0120] refer to Figure 5 According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device, a cigarette cartridge 200 , an aerosol generating device body 300 , and a cover 400 .

[0121] The heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as "heater assembly") can accommodate the aerosol generating article 2 and heat the aerosol generating article 2. At this time, the heater assembly 100 can heat the aerosol generating article 2 by heating. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The tobacco rod of the aerosol-generating article 2 described above is used to heat the aerosol-generating substance in the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0122] The heater assembly 100 may be combined with the aerosol generating device body 300 to be fixed to the aerosol generating device body 300 .

[0123] The aerosol-generating substance can be stored inside the cigarette cartridge 200, and the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cigarette cartridge 200 can be supplied to the heating portion provided in the cigarette cartridge 200. Thus, the aerosol-generating substance can be converted into an aerosol by the heating portion in the chamber provided in the cigarette cartridge 200. In the present disclosure, "aerosol" may refer to particles generated by the mixture of steam generated by heating the aerosol-generating substance and air, and this expression may also be used in the same meaning hereinafter. A detailed description of the heating portion and the chamber will be described later.

[0124] The cigarette cartridge 200 can be connected or fluidically connected to the heater assembly 100. As a result, the aerosol generated in the chamber of the cigarette cartridge 200 can be discharged to the exterior of the aerosol-generating device 1 via the aerosol-generating article 2 housed in the heater assembly 100. At this point, the aerosol generated in the chamber of the cigarette cartridge 200 can be discharged to the exterior of the aerosol-generating device 1 together with the aerosol-generating substance or additive in the aerosol-generating article 2 heated by the heater assembly 100. The user can contact the aerosol-generating article 2 with their mouth and inhale the aerosol discharged to the exterior of the aerosol-generating device 1 via the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0125] The aerosol generating device body 300 is located below the heater assembly 100, the cigarette cartridge 200, and the cover 400 (e.g., the portion facing the -z direction) to support the heater assembly 100, the aerosol generating device body 300, and the cover 400. Components required for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed within the aerosol generating device body 300.

[0126] The cover 400 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the heater assembly 100, at least a portion of the cigarette cartridge 200, and at least a portion of the aerosol generating device body 300. For example, the cover 400 can be coupled to the aerosol generating device body 300 in a manner that surrounds the entire outer sides of the heater assembly 100 and the cigarette cartridge 200. The cover 400 can protect the heater assembly 100, the cigarette cartridge 200, and the aerosol generating device body 300 from external impact or the inflow of external foreign matter.

[0127] Below, we will refer to Figure 6 The connection between the aerosol generating device body 300 and the cover 400 will be described in detail.

[0128] Figure 6 The cap 400 and the aerosol generating device body 300 are shown in a disassembled state. Figure 5 An exploded perspective view of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown.

[0129] refer to Figure 6 According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater assembly 100, a cigarette cartridge 200, an aerosol generating device body 300, and a cover 400. At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 may be connected to the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 5 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.

[0130] The heater assembly 100 can be disposed on one side (e.g., in the +x direction) of the cigarette cartridge 200. A storage space for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 2 can be formed in the heater assembly 100, and the storage space can be connected to the cigarette cartridge 200. Thus, the aerosol generated in the cigarette cartridge 200 can move into the storage space.

[0131] The cigarette cartridge 200 may include a storage portion 210 for storing an aerosol-generating substance and a chamber 220 connected to the storage portion 210 .

[0132] The aerosol generating substance stored in the storage portion 210 may include a tobacco-containing substance containing volatile tobacco aroma components or a liquid composition containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the liquid composition may include any one of water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, spices, flavoring agents, and vitamin mixtures, or a mixture of these ingredients. Spices may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit flavors. Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide a variety of aromas or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may be, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Furthermore, the liquid composition may include an aerosol former such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0134] For example, the liquid composition may include a solution of glycerol and propylene glycol in any weight ratio to which a nicotine salt has been added. The liquid composition may also include two or more nicotine salts. Nicotine salts may be formed by adding a suitable acid, including an organic acid or an inorganic acid, to nicotine. Nicotine may be naturally occurring or synthetic, and may be present in any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0135] The acid used to form the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected based on the absorption rate of nicotine in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 1, the aroma or flavor, the solubility, etc. For example, the acid used to form the nicotine salt can be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group, but is not limited thereto.

[0136] The chamber 220 may be connected to the storage portion 210 and may be a space where aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion 210. The chamber 220 may be disposed at the lower portion of the storage portion 210 (e.g., the portion facing the -z direction). The aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion 210 may flow into the interior space of the chamber 220, and the aerosol generated in the interior space of the chamber 220 may move to the aerosol-generating article 2 housed in the heater assembly 100.

[0137] Components used to operate the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed within the aerosol generating device body 300. For example, a battery (not shown) and a processor (not shown) may be disposed within the aerosol generating device body 300. However, the battery and processor are merely examples of components disposed within the aerosol generating device body 300. In addition to the aforementioned components, other components (e.g., a user interface, sensors, etc.) may also be disposed within the aerosol generating device body 300.

[0138] The battery can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery can be electrically connected to the heater assembly 100 and the heating portion of the cigarette cartridge 200 to supply power, thereby heating the heater assembly 100 and the heating portion. As another example, the battery can also supply power required for operating other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., a processor, etc.).

[0139] The processor can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The processor can be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a program executable by the microprocessor, but is not limited thereto.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the processor can control the power supplied from the battery to the heater assembly 100 and the heating portion of the cigarette cartridge 200. For example, the processor can control the amount of power supplied from the battery to the heater assembly 100 and the heating portion and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater assembly 100 and the heating portion can be heated to or maintained at a specified temperature.

[0141] The aerosol generating device body 300 may include a coupling portion 310 .

[0142] The cigarette cartridge 200 can be detachably coupled to the coupling portion 310. The cigarette cartridge 200 can be connected to the aerosol generating device body 300 and the heater assembly 100 by coupling to the cigarette cartridge coupling portion 310. The cigarette cartridge 200 can be separated from the aerosol generating device body 300 and the heater assembly 100 by separating from the coupling portion 310.

[0143] The coupling portion 310 may include a coupling body 311 and a receiving hole 312 .

[0144] The coupling body 311 may serve as the main body of the coupling portion 310, and a coupling space may be formed in the coupling body 311 for coupling the cigarette cartridge 200. When the cigarette cartridge 200 is coupled to the coupling space, the cigarette cartridge 200 may be connected to the heater assembly 100 disposed within the coupling body 311, and may be electrically connected to the battery and processor of the aerosol generating device body 300.

[0145] The receiving hole 312 may be formed at an upper portion of the coupling body 311 (eg, a portion facing the +z direction) and may be connected to the receiving space of the heater assembly 100. The aerosol-generating article 2 may be received in the receiving space of the heater assembly 100 through the receiving hole 312.

[0146] The cover 400 may include a cover body 410 , a door 420 , and a cover hole 430 .

[0147] The cover body 410 may serve as the main body of the cover 400 and may be detachably coupled to the aerosol generating device body 300. The cover body 410 may be configured to surround the outer side of the cartridge 200 and the coupling portion 310. A door guide hole may be formed in the cover body 410, into which at least a portion of the door 420 is inserted to guide movement of the door 420.

[0148] The door 420 may be located at an upper portion of the cover body 410 (eg, a portion facing the +z direction) and may open or close the cover hole 430. The door 420 may be inserted into the door guide hole of the cover body 410 to move in one direction (eg, the x-axis direction).

[0149] The cover hole 430 may be formed in an upper portion of the cover body 410 (e.g., a portion facing the +z direction) and may communicate with the receiving hole 312 of the coupling portion 310. When the cover 400 is coupled to the aerosol-generating device body 300, the aerosol-generating article 2 may sequentially pass through the cover hole 430 and the receiving hole 312 and be received in the receiving space of the heater assembly 100.

[0150] Figure 7 The cigarette cartridge 200 and the aerosol generating device body 300 are shown in a disassembled state. Figure 6 An exploded perspective view of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown.

[0151] refer to Figure 7 According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater assembly 100, a cigarette cartridge 200, and an aerosol generating device body 300. At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 may be connected to the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 6At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0152] The cigarette cartridge 200 can be detachably coupled to the aerosol generating device body 300. As an example, the cigarette cartridge 200 can be coupled to or separated from the aerosol generating device body 300 by coupling or separating with the coupling portion 310. When the cigarette cartridge 200 is coupled to the coupling portion 310, the cigarette cartridge 200 can be connected or fluidically connected to the heater assembly 100 and can be electrically connected to the battery via a terminal (not shown) of the aerosol generating device body 300. At least a portion of the terminal can be exposed toward the coupling portion 310 to electrically connect to the heating portion of the cigarette cartridge 200.

[0153] If the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cartridge 200 is exhausted, the user can replace the existing cartridge 200 with a new one to continue smoking. As another example, if the performance of a component of the cartridge 200 (e.g., the heating portion or the plate) deteriorates, resulting in an inability to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol or leakage of the aerosol-generating substance, the user can replace the existing cartridge 200 with a new one to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol or prevent leakage of the aerosol-generating substance.

[0154] Hereinafter, the structure of the cigarette cartridge 200 storing the aerosol generating substance will be described in detail.

[0155] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A block diagram of the cartridge 200 is shown.

[0156] refer to Figure 8 The cigarette cartridge 200 may include a storage portion 210, a chamber 220, a plate 230, and a heating portion 240. At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 200 may be connected to Figure 6 At least one of the components of the cigarette cartridge 200 shown is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0157] The storage portion 210 is used to store an aerosol-generating substance and is disposed above the chamber 220 so as to be connected or fluidically connected to the inner space of the chamber 220 .

[0158] The chamber 220 provides a space for aerosol generation from the aerosol-generating substance. The chamber 220 can be located below the storage unit 210 and on one side of the heater assembly 100, and can be connected to the storage unit 210 and the heater assembly 100, respectively. As a result, the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage unit 210 can flow into the interior of the chamber 220, and the aerosol generated within the chamber 220 can move to the storage space of the heater assembly 100.

[0159] The plate 230 may be disposed between the storage portion 210 and the chamber 220 to prevent the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion 210 from leaking outside the cartridge 200. As an example, the plate 230 may be coupled to the storage portion 210 and the chamber 220 in an interference fit, but the coupling method is not limited thereto. The plate 230 may also comprise an elastic material such as rubber.

[0160] An aerosol-generating substance inlet (not shown) may be formed on the plate 230. The aerosol-generating substance inlet may be connected or fluidically connected to the interior of the chamber 220, and the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion 210 may flow into the interior space of the chamber 220 through the aerosol-generating substance inlet. Thus, the aerosol-generating substance flowing into the interior space of the chamber 220 may be absorbed by the wick 242 inside the chamber 220 and heated by the heating coil 241.

[0161] The heating unit 240 may be disposed within the chamber 220 to convert the phase of the aerosol-forming substance into a gas phase. A heating unit receiving groove for receiving the heating unit 240 may be formed in the chamber 220, and the heating unit 240 may be disposed within the chamber 220 by being received in the heating unit receiving groove.

[0162] The heating unit 240 may heat the aerosol-generating substance supplied from the storage unit 210. For example, the heating unit 240 may heat the aerosol-generating substance received from the storage unit 210 to generate steam from the aerosol-generating substance, and the generated steam may be mixed with external air flowing into the chamber 220. Thus, aerosol may be generated.

[0163] The heating part 240 may include a heating coil 241 and a core 242 .

[0164] The heating coil 241 may heat the aerosol-generating substance absorbed by the core 242. The heating coil 241 may be configured to be wound around the core 242. For example, the heating coil 241 may heat the aerosol-generating substance absorbed by the core 242 by utilizing power supplied from a battery of the aerosol-generating device body.

[0165] The heating coil 241 may include a metal material that generates heat through electrical resistance. For example, the heating coil 241 may include stainless steel to prevent corrosion from the aerosol-generating substances absorbed by the core 242, but the metal material of the heating coil 241 is not limited thereto. In another example, the heating coil 241 may also include a metal material such as copper, nickel, tungsten, etc.

[0166] The wick 242 is disposed in the lower portion of the storage portion 210 (eg, the portion facing the −z direction) within the chamber 220 so as to absorb the aerosol-forming substance flowing from the storage portion 210 into the interior space of the chamber 220 .

[0167] According to an embodiment, the core 242 may include a cotton material. However, the material of the core 242 is not limited to the above embodiment, and may also include other materials (eg, glass or ceramic) according to embodiments.

[0168] The wick 242 may be received in the heating portion receiving groove of the chamber 220. Since the wick 242 is received in the heating portion receiving groove, the position of the heating portion 240 may be fixed inside the chamber 220.

[0169] Hereinafter, the structure of the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment will be described in further detail.

[0170] Figure 9 1 is a perspective view of a heater assembly 100 , a cigarette cartridge 200 , and an aerosol generating device body 300 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0171] refer to Figure 9 According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater assembly 100, a cigarette cartridge 200, and an aerosol generating device body 300. At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 may be connected to the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 7 and Figure 8 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.

[0172] The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120 .

[0173] The heater 110 may contain the aerosol-generating article and heat the aerosol-generating article. The heater 110 may be configured to surround the outside of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0174] The heater 110 may include a heat transfer tube 110 a and a film 110 b .

[0175] Heat transfer tube 110a can transfer heat generated by film 110b to the aerosol-generating article. Heat transfer tube 110a can be made of a thermally conductive metal material, including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, or a combination thereof. Heat transfer tube 110a can have a receiving space for accommodating the aerosol-generating article. For example, heat transfer tube 110a can be formed into a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0176] The film 110b can be arranged to surround the outside of the heat transfer tube 110a. The film 110b is electrically connected to the battery of the aerosol generating device 1 so that it can generate heat when electricity is applied. The film 110b can include a heat-generating wire, and the wire can be electrically connected to the battery. The film 110b can be formed into a hollow cylindrical shape to accommodate the heat transfer tube 110a. The film 110b can be formed by printing a circuit pattern, such as copper, on a flexible substrate made of a flexible material such as polyimide, or by laminating the flexible substrate and the circuit layer using a process such as lamination.

[0177] The heater 110 described hereinafter may be referred to as a heat transfer tube 110 a , and the same expression may continue to be used.

[0178] The heater placement portion 120 is used to place the heater 110. The heater placement portion 120 can be configured on the lower side of the heater 110 (e.g., in the -z direction) and can be combined with the aerosol generating device body 300. The heater placement portion 120 can be connected to the storage space of the heater 110 and the chamber of the cigarette cartridge 200 respectively.

[0179] Hereinafter, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0180] Figure 10 The aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment is Figure 5 Front cross-sectional view of line II cutting.

[0181] refer to Figure 10 According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a heater assembly 100, a cigarette cartridge 200, an aerosol generating device body 300, and a cover 400. At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 may be connected to the aerosol generating device 1. Figures 5 to 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.

[0182] The heater assembly 100 may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120 .

[0183] An accommodation space 100a for accommodating an aerosol-generating article may be formed in the heater 110. The accommodation space 100a may be connected to the inner space and the outside of the heater placement portion 120.

[0184] According to one embodiment of the heater assembly 100, the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 can be integrally formed through insert injection molding. This allows for a seamless joint connection between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120, eliminating any gap between them. This fundamentally eliminates the possibility of aerosol leaking through the gap within the heater assembly 100. Consequently, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can prevent malfunction or damage to components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the battery) caused by liquid leakage, and can increase the amount of aerosol delivered to the user.

[0185] Insert injection molding is a molding process that involves pouring a material (e.g., resin) into a metallic mold. This refers to a process where a separate material, such as metal, is previously inserted into the mold, and then the resin is injected into the mold. Insert injection molding can produce a product that combines metal and resin (e.g., thermoplastic). In one embodiment, the metal can be the heater 110, and the resin can be the heater placement portion 120.

[0186] Furthermore, the seamless connection between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 may mean that there is no separate bonding device (e.g., adhesive) for connecting the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 to each other, and the spacing between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 is minimized to prevent liquid or gas from passing between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120. In one embodiment, the heater placement portion 120 is directly attached to the heater 110 at the contact surface between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120, so that the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 can be seamlessly connected.

[0187] The heater placement portion 120 may include a placement body 121 and an aerosol inflow hole 122 .

[0188] The placement body 121 can serve as the main body of the heater placement portion 120 and can be integrally formed with the heater 110 through an insert injection molding process. The aerosol-generating article housed in the storage space 100a can be surrounded by both the heater 110 and the placement body 121. That is, the storage space 100a can be defined as the interior space of the heater 110 and the interior space of a portion of the placement body 121. The placement body 121 can be positioned between the heater 110 and the cigarette cartridge 200.

[0189] The aerosol inflow hole 122 may be formed in the placement body 121, and the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating substance stored in the cigarette cartridge 200 flows into the interior space of the heater placement portion 120 through the aerosol inflow hole 122 and may move to the storage space 100a. The aerosol inflow hole 122 may be connected to the chamber 220 of the cigarette cartridge 200 and the storage space 100a respectively.

[0190] The cartridge 200 may include a storage portion 210 , a chamber 220 , a plate 230 , a heating portion 240 , and an airflow channel 250 .

[0191] The aerosol generating material stored in the storage part 210 can flow into the chamber 220 through the aerosol generating material inlet formed in the plate 230 and can be absorbed by the core of the heating part 240. The heating coil of the heating part 240 can vaporize the aerosol generating material by heating the core. Figure 10 External air flowing into the chamber 220 in the direction of the hollow arrow shown can mix with the steam to generate an aerosol. The airflow channel 250 can be connected to the internal space of the chamber 220. The airflow channel 250 can be formed along a direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) on one side (e.g., the -x direction) of the cigarette cartridge 200, but is not limited thereto.

[0192] The aerosol generated in the inner space of the chamber 220 can be Figure 10 The light in the direction of the black arrow moves through the aerosol inflow hole 122 to the inner space of the heater placement portion 120 , and can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space 100 a .

[0193] Below, we will refer to Figures 11 to 17 Various embodiments of the shapes or coupling structures of the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 will be described.

[0194] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG. 1 , for illustrating an embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device including a protrusion 112 .

[0195] refer to Figure 11 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 10 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0196] According to the heater assembly 100 of one embodiment, the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 can be integrally formed by insert injection molding, thereby eliminating the need for a gap between the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 .

[0197] At least any one of the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 may include a protrusion protruding toward the other. Figure 11 The embodiment in which the heater 110 includes the protrusion 112 is shown, the heater placement portion 120 may include the protrusion, or both the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 may include the protrusion. The protrusion may be formed integrally with the heater body 111 or the placement body 121.

[0198] The protrusion 112 may protrude from the heater body 111 toward the heater placement portion 120. In this case, as shown in FIG. Figure 11 As shown by the dotted line in FIG, the spacing distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may increase along the heater 110 .

[0199] The first portion P1 is defined as the portion where the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 are connected on the inner surface 111a of the heater 110. The second portion P2 is defined as the portion where the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 are connected on the outer surface 111b of the heater 110.

[0200] In the comparative example without the protrusion 112 , the first surface 111 c of the heater 110 and the first surface 121 b of the heater placement portion 120 extend only in one direction (eg, the x-axis direction), so the spacing distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 is shortened.

[0201] However, according to one embodiment of heater assembly 100, the first surface 111c of heater 110 and the first surface 121b of heater placement portion 120 include portions extending in at least two directions (e.g., the x-axis and the z-axis), thereby increasing the area of the aerosol leakage prevention path. Thus, heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can reduce the likelihood of aerosol leakage through insert injection molding while also improving aerosol leakage prevention capabilities through the shapes of heater 110 and heater placement portion 120.

[0202] The inner surface 111a of the heater 110 may be an inner surface of the heater 110 facing the accommodation space 100a, and the outer surface 111b of the heater 110 may be an opposite surface of the inner surface 111a. The first surface 111c of the heater 110 may be a lower surface of the heater 110 facing the heater placement portion 120.

[0203] The inner surface 121 a of the heater placement portion 120 may be an inner surface of the heater placement portion 120 facing the accommodation space 100 a , and the first surface 121 b of the heater placement portion 120 may be an upper surface of the heater placement portion 120 facing the heater 110 .

[0204] The definitions concerning the surface described above may be used hereinafter with the same meaning.

[0205] The inner surface 111a of the heater 110 and the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be connected to each other as a continuous surface. Thus, the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 and the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be smoothly connected to each other without being bent.

[0206] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG. 1 , used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device including an extension portion 113 .

[0207] refer to Figure 12 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 10 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0208] According to the heater assembly 100 of one embodiment, the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 can be integrally formed by insert injection molding, thereby eliminating the need for a gap between the heater body 111 and the placement body 121 .

[0209] The heater 110 may include an extension portion 113 .

[0210] The extension portion 113 may extend in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) that is transverse to the first direction, wherein the first direction is the direction in which the heater assembly 100 extends (e.g., the z-axis direction). In this case, the heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the heater 110. For example, the heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround the entire extension portion 113 and at least a portion of the heater body 111.

[0211] The heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can increase the bonding area between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 via the extension portion 113, thereby providing a structure that easily secures the heater 110 to the heater placement portion 120. This is because the heater 110 can be secured while moving in the first direction by the extension portion 113 extending in the second direction. Therefore, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can facilitate the insert injection molding process between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0212] In addition, if Figure 12 As shown by the dotted line, the distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 can be increased along the heater 110 by the extension portion 113. Thus, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can reduce the possibility of aerosol leakage through insert injection molding, while also improving the ability to prevent aerosol leakage through the shapes of the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0213] The extension portion 113 may extend from the heater body 111 toward the second direction and may be integrally formed with the heater body 111 .

[0214] The inner surface 111a of the heater 110 and the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be connected as a continuous surface. Thus, the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 and the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be smoothly connected to each other without being bent.

[0215] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 FIG1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG1 for illustrating an embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device including a first extension portion 113 and a second extension portion 114. In the present disclosure, the first extension portion 113 may be Figure 12 The extensions 113 shown are the same or similar.

[0216] refer to Figure 13 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 12 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0217] The heater 110 may include a first extension portion 113 and a second extension portion 114 .

[0218] The first extension portion 113 may extend in a second direction (eg, an x-axis direction) that is transverse to the first direction, wherein the first direction is a direction in which the heater assembly 100 extends (eg, a z-axis direction). Figure 12 The extensions 113 shown are identical, so detailed description is omitted.

[0219] The second extension portion 114 may extend in a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) that is transverse to the second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) in which the first extension portion 113 extends. For example, the second extension portion 114 may extend downward (e.g., in the −z direction) from the first extension portion 113 and may be integrally formed with the first extension portion 113.

[0220] In this case, the heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the heater 110. For example, the heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround all of the first extension portion 113, all of the second extension portion 114, and at least a portion of the heater body 111.

[0221] Heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can increase the bonding area between heater 110 and heater placement portion 120 through first extension portion 113 and second extension portion 114, thereby providing a structure that can more easily secure heater 110 to heater placement portion 120. This is because heater 110 can be secured in the first direction by first extension portion 113 extending in the second direction, and can be secured in the second direction by second extension portion 114 extending in the first direction. Therefore, heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can facilitate the insert injection molding process between heater 110 and heater placement portion 120.

[0222] In addition, if Figure 13 As shown by the dotted line, the distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 can be further increased along the heater 110 by the first extension portion 113 and the second extension portion 114. Thus, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can reduce the possibility of aerosol leakage through insert injection molding, while further improving the ability to prevent aerosol leakage through the shapes of the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0223] Figure 14 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG. 1 , for illustrating a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device including a sealing ring 130 .

[0224] refer to Figure 14The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110, a heater placement portion 120, and a sealing ring 130. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to the heater assembly 110. Figure 12 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0225] The sealing ring 130 may be disposed so as to surround both the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120. This may further enhance the ability to prevent aerosol leakage. For example, the sealing ring 130 may be disposed at the second portion P2.

[0226] The sealing ring 130 may be formed in a circular ring shape and may include a rubber material.

[0227] On the other hand, although not shown, Figure 14 The heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment may further include Figure 13 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 shown (eg, the second extension portion 114 ).

[0228] Figure 15 yes Figure 10 1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG. 1 , which is used to illustrate an embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device in which the inner surface 111 a of the heater 110 and the inner surface 121 a of the heater placement portion 120 are spaced apart from each other.

[0229] refer to Figure 15 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 12 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0230] The inner surface 111a of the heater 110 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120. In one embodiment, the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 toward the accommodation space 100a.

[0231] In these embodiments, the heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround the entire outer side of the extension portion 113 and at least a portion of the heater body 111. Figure 12 Compared with the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the bonding area between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 can be further increased. Figure 12 In the embodiment shown, the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 is completely open to the receiving space 100a. Figure 15 In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 is surrounded by the placement body 121. Therefore, the heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment can facilitate an insert injection molding process between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0232] In addition, if Figure 15 As shown by the dotted line, the distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 can be further increased along the heater 110 by the extension portion 113. Thus, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can reduce the possibility of aerosol leakage through insert injection molding, while further improving the ability to prevent aerosol leakage through the shapes of the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0233] In another embodiment, the inner surface 111 a of the heater 110 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 121 a of the heater placement portion 120 toward the accommodation space 100 a .

[0234] On the other hand, although not shown, Figure 15 The heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment may further include Figures 13 and 14 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 shown (eg, the second extension portion 114 , the sealing ring 130 ).

[0235] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 FIG1 is an enlarged view of a portion A of FIG1 , which is used to illustrate another embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device.

[0236] refer to Figure 16 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 12 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0237] The heater 110 may include a heater body 111 extending in one direction (eg, z-axis direction) and integrally formed with the placement body 121 through insert injection molding.

[0238] A heater insertion groove into which at least a portion of the heater body 111 is inserted may be formed at the heater placement portion 120. The heater placement portion 120 may be configured to surround at least a portion of the heater body 111 when at least a portion of the heater body 111 is inserted into the heater insertion groove.

[0239] In these embodiments, Figure 16As shown by the dotted line, the spacing distance between the first portion P1 and the second portion P2 may also increase along the heater 110 .

[0240] and Figure 16 Unlike the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120. In one embodiment, the inner surface 121a of the heater placement portion 120 may be spaced apart from the inner surface 111a of the heater 110 toward the accommodating space 100a.

[0241] On the other hand, although not shown, Figure 16 The heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment may further include Figures 13 to 15 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 shown (eg, the second extension portion 114 , the sealing ring 130 ).

[0242] Figure 17 yes Figure 10 FIG1 is an enlarged view of a portion B of FIG1 , which is used to illustrate another embodiment of a heater assembly 100 for an aerosol generating device.

[0243] refer to Figure 17 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 may be connected to Figure 12 At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 is the same or similar, and repeated description will be omitted below.

[0244] The heater 110 may include a first surface 111c facing the heater placement portion 120 and a second surface 111d opposite the first surface 111c. The first surface 111c may be a lower surface of the heater 110, and the second surface 111d may be an upper surface of the heater 110.

[0245] In one embodiment, the first diameter D1 of the lower portion of the heater 110 may be greater than the second diameter D2 of the upper portion of the heater 110. That is, the first length L1 of the first surface 111c may be greater than the second length L2 of the second surface 111d.

[0246] Thus, the coupling area between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 can be increased. Therefore, the heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment can facilitate the insert injection molding process between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120.

[0247] On the other hand, although not shown, Figure 17 The heater assembly 100 according to one embodiment may further include Figures 13 to 15At least one of the components of the heater assembly 100 shown (eg, the second extension portion 114 , the sealing ring 130 ).

[0248] Figure 18 1 and 2 are diagrams showing modified examples of the coupling structure between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 .

[0249] refer to Figure 18 The heater assembly 100 according to an embodiment may include a heater 110 and a heater placement portion 120 .

[0250] The heater 110 may have a thread 115 formed on its outer surface. The thread 115 may be formed along the circumference of the outer surface of the heater 110. The thread 115 of the heater 110 may be inserted into a thread groove (not shown) formed on the inner surface of the heater placement portion 120.

[0251] In this embodiment, the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120 may also be integrally formed by insert injection molding. That is, after the heater 110 having the screw thread 115 is placed in the mold, the resin forming the heater placement portion 120 is injected into the mold so that the heater 110 can be manufactured. Figure 18 The heater assembly 100 is shown. In this embodiment, the thread 115 can increase the joint area between the heater 110 and the heater placement portion 120, and the area of the prevention path for preventing aerosol leakage can also be increased.

[0252] Figure 19 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0253] The aerosol generating device 1 may 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 19 That is, those skilled in the art in the art related to this embodiment can understand the structure of the aerosol generating device 1 based on the design of the aerosol generating device 1. Figure 19 A part of the shown configurations may be omitted or a new configuration may be further added.

[0254] 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 cigarette cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying a notification, etc.

[0255] The sensing part 2000 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 2100 , an insertion detection sensor 2200 , and a suction sensor 2300 , but is not limited thereto.

[0256] 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 can include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heater 5000, or the heater 5000 itself can serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 2100 can be disposed around the battery 4000 to detect the temperature of the battery 4000.

[0257] The insertion detection sensor 2200 can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 2200 can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistance sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can sense a signal change when an aerosol-generating article is inserted and / or removed.

[0258] The puff sensor 2300 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 2300 can sense the user's puff based on any one of temperature change, flow change, voltage change, and pressure change.

[0259] In addition to the aforementioned sensors (2100 to 2300), the sensing unit 2000 may further 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., a GPS (Global Positioning System)), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). A person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, and thus a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0260] The output unit 3000 can output information about the status 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 tactile unit 3200, and an audio output unit 3300, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 3100 and the touch panel form a layered structure to constitute a touch screen, the display unit 3100 can function as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0261] The display unit 3100 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 can include various information, such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 4000 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating status of the heater 5000, the insertion / removal status of an aerosol-generating article, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., abnormal article detection), and the like. The display unit 3100 can output this information to the outside. The display unit 3100 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, or the like. Furthermore, the display unit 3100 can also be a light-emitting diode (LED) type light-emitting element.

[0262] The haptic portion 3200 may convert the electrical signal into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation and provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in a tactile manner. For example, the haptic portion 3200 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0263] The audio output unit 3300 may provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the audio output unit 3300 may convert an electrical signal into an audio signal and output the audio signal to the outside.

[0264] The battery 4000 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. The battery 4000 can also supply power to heat the heater 5000. Furthermore, the battery 4000 can supply power required for the operation of other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000). 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.

[0265] The heater 5000 can heat the aerosol generating substance by receiving power supplied by the battery 4000. Figure 19 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., 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 electromagnetic 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.

[0266] The control part 1000, the sensing part 2000, the output part 3000, the user input part 6000, the memory 7000 and the communication part 8000 may receive power supplied by the battery 4000 to perform functions. Figure 19 Although not shown, a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage stabilization circuit, for supplying power to each component by converting power from the battery 4000 may be further included.

[0267] In one embodiment, heater 5000 can be formed 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 5000 can be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks, a ceramic heating element, and the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0268] In another embodiment, the heater 5000 may be an electromagnetic induction heating heater, for example, the heater 5000 may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating substance.

[0269] The user input unit 6000 may receive information input by the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 6000 may include a keyboard (key pad), a dome switch (dome switch), a touch pad (contact capacitance method, pressure resistance film method, infrared sensing method, surface ultrasonic wave conduction method, integral tension measurement method (an integral tension measurement method), piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a scroll wheel, a scroll wheel switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, although in Figure 19 Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and connect to other external devices through the connection interface such as the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 4000.

[0270] The memory 7000 is hardware for storing various data processed by the aerosol generating device 1. It 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 selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, 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. 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 profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0271] 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 .

[0272] The short-range wireless communication unit 8100 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit (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., but is not limited to these.

[0273] 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., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN)) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 8200 may use membership information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to verify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 1 in the communication network.

[0274] The control unit 1000 can 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, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, persons skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0275] The control unit 1000 can 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 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 4000 and the heater 5000. In another example, the direct heating circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 5000 according to a control command from the control unit 1000.

[0276] The control unit 1000 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 and control 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 duration of power supply based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 to heat the heater 5000 to a specified temperature or maintain it at an appropriate temperature.

[0277] The control unit 1000 may control the output unit 3000 based on the result 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 may notify the user through at least one of the display unit 3100, the tactile unit 3200, and the audio output unit 3300 that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end.

[0278] An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions such as computer-executable program modules. Computer-readable media can be any available media that is accessible to a computer and includes volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. In addition, computer-readable media may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules and / or other data. Communication media generally include other data or other transmission mechanisms of modulated data signals of computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, etc., and include any information transfer media.

[0279] The description of the above embodiments is for illustrative purposes only. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the appended claims, and any differences within the scope of equivalence with the contents recited 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: include: a heater forming a storage space for storing an aerosol-generating article, heating the aerosol-generating article stored in the storage space, and The heater placement portion is connected to the heater so that the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substance flows toward the aerosol generating article accommodated in the accommodation space. The heater placement portion and the heater are manufactured by insert injection molding.

2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater and the heater placement portion are formed integrally.

3. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: At least either one of the heater and the heater placement portion includes a protrusion that protrudes toward the other.

4. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater includes an extending portion extending in a direction transverse to a direction in which the heater placement portion extends.

5. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The heater placement portion is connected to the heater so as to surround the entire outer side of the extension portion.

6. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: An inner surface of the heater facing the accommodation space and an inner surface of the heater placement portion facing the accommodation space are connected to form a continuous surface.

7. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater comprises: a first extending portion extending in a second direction transverse to a first direction in which the heater placement portion extends, and The second extending portion extends from the first extending portion in the first direction.

8. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: A sealing ring is configured to surround the heater and the heater placement portion together.

9. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater extends in a direction in which the heater placement portion extends and is formed by insert injection molding with the heater placement portion.

10. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater comprises: a thin film, generating heat by applying electricity to the thin film, and The heat transfer tube is located inside the film and transfers heat generated by the film to the aerosol-generating article accommodated in the accommodation space.

11. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein: The heat transfer tube is insert-injection-molded with the heater placement portion.

12. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater placement portion includes an aerosol inflow hole connected to a chamber serving as a space for generating the aerosol.

13. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that: include: The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which accommodates the aerosol generating article and heats the aerosol generating article, and The cigarette cartridge stores the aerosol generating substance and is connected to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device so that the generated aerosol moves toward the aerosol generating article.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein: The cigarette cartridge comprises: a storage unit for storing the aerosol-generating substance, a heating portion that absorbs the aerosol-generating substance stored in the storage portion and heats the aerosol-generating substance, and The chamber accommodates the heating unit and provides a space for generating the aerosol.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein: The aerosol generated in the cigarette cartridge is discharged to the outside through the aerosol generating article housed in the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

Images