Aerosol-generating device comprising surface plasmon resonance heater and device for manufacturing surface plasmon resonance heater

Abstract

A heater may include a substrate including a first face and a second face opposite the first face, where the first face includes a curved face and defines a cavity; a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure configured to generate heat by SPR and disposed on the first face; and an opening configured to allow light to enter the cavity and defined by the first face.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a surface plasmon resonance heater and also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing the surface plasmon resonance heater. Background Art

[0002] Technologies are being developed to introduce airflow into aerosol-generating articles to provide atomization performance. For example, aerosol-generating devices are being developed that generate aerosol from aerosol-generating articles in a non-combustion manner. The above description is based on information obtained during the development of the present disclosure or information already available at the time, and is not necessarily known prior to the filing of this application. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical problems to be solved One aspect of the present disclosure may provide a heater for improving light utilization and ensuring thermal stability and an aerosol generating device including the same. Another aspect of the present disclosure may provide an improved device for manufacturing a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heater having a complex structure.

[0004] Technical solutions to the problem An aerosol-generating device may include a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article. The heater may include: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the first surface includes a curved surface and defines a cavity; a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure configured to generate heat via SPR and disposed on the first surface; and an opening configured to allow light to enter the cavity and defined by the first surface.

[0005] The first area of ​​the first face may face a second area that is at least partially different from the first area of ​​the first face.

[0006] The first face may have a substantially constant curvature.

[0007] The heater may include an absorption layer disposed on the second face and configured to absorb light that passes through the substrate.

[0008] The heater may include a reflective layer disposed on the second face and configured to reflect light that passes through the substrate.

[0009] The heater may include a heat transfer body disposed on the second surface and configured to transfer generated heat.

[0010] The heat transfer body may include a first material having a first thermal property and a second material having a second thermal property different from the first thermal property.

[0011] The SPR structure may include: a void region; and a plurality of prism regions defining the void region and arranged along a circumferential direction of the void region.

[0012] The SPR structure may include: a void region; and a metal prism defining the void region and extending along an entire circumference of the void region.

[0013] The SPR structure may include a plurality of metal particles of random sizes.

[0014] The aerosol generating device may comprise an optical fibre connected to the opening.

[0015] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a core configured to carry the aerosol-generating material. The core may be thermally coupled to the SPR structure.

[0016] The aerosol generating device may comprise a cartridge comprising the aerosol generating material. The cartridge may comprise an aperture facing the opening.

[0017] The aerosol generating device may comprise a light source configured to generate light.

[0018] According to one embodiment, an apparatus for manufacturing an SPR heater is disclosed. The SPR heater may include a substrate. The substrate may include: a closed first end; an open second end opposite the first end; an inner side surface disposed between the first and second ends; and a hollow portion defined by the inner end surface of the first end and the inner side surface. The apparatus may include: a holder configured to support the substrate; a target disposed toward the holder; and an evaporator configured to generate a first deposition material from the target and deposit the first deposition material onto the inner end surface and the inner side surface of the first end.

[0019] The evaporator may be deposited on the entire inner side surface and the entire inner end surface between the first end portion and the second end portion.

[0020] The evaporator may accelerate electrons to the target.

[0021] The evaporator may include a power source and a cathode electrically connected to the power source.

[0022] The apparatus may include a magnetic field generator configured to generate a magnetic field between the evaporator and the target.

[0023] The first deposition material may include metal particles.

[0024] The evaporator may be configured to generate a second deposition material different from the first deposition material and deposit the second deposition material on the inner end face and the inner side face of the first end portion.

[0025] The evaporator may deposit the second deposition material before depositing the first deposition material.

[0026] The second deposition material may include carbon black.

[0027] The support may be configured to heat the substrate.

[0028] The apparatus may include a chamber configured to accommodate the support and the target.

[0029] The apparatus may include a vacuum pump connected to the chamber.

[0030] Effects of the Invention According to one embodiment, the rate of light (e.g., laser light) escape can be reduced. According to one embodiment, thermal stability can be ensured. According to one embodiment, a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heater having a complex structure (e.g., a hollow cylindrical structure) can be easily manufactured. The effects of the heater according to one embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent through the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 3 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 5 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the main body and the cigarette cartridge of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 6FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 7 4 is a bottom perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 8 4 is a cross-sectional view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 9 2 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a first container and a second container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 10 4 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling between the first container and the second container of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 11 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an airflow channel of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a heater according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An enlarged view of a portion of the heater.

[0045] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A plan view of a portion of the heater.

[0046] Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the heater observed along line 15-15.

[0047] Figure 16 is a plan view of a portion of a heater according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figures 17 to 19 is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a heater according to an embodiment, wherein: Figure 17 shows depositing a plurality of metal particles on a substrate, Figure 18 Show the Figure 17 The structure is annealed (annealing process), Figure 19 Shown by Figure 18 The heater is manufactured by the annealing process.

[0049] Figure 20 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 21is a perspective view of a heater in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of the heater taken along line 22-22.

[0052] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 An enlarged view of part A of FIG.

[0053] Figure 24 FIG2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 25 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heater of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0055] Figure 26 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing an SPR heater of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals, and repeated description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] In the following description, the suffixes “module” and “section” used for constituent elements are given or used interchangeably for the convenience of describing the specification, and do not have different meanings or functions by themselves.

[0058] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known technology would unnecessarily obscure the embodiments, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and the technical concepts disclosed herein are not limited thereto but should be understood to include all variations, equivalents, or alternatives within the scope of the concepts and technologies disclosed herein.

[0059] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first or second can be used to describe various components, however, the components are not limited by the above terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from other components.

[0060] When a component is described as being “connected” or “coupled” to another component, it can be directly connected or attached to the other component, but it can also be understood that there are other components between them. Conversely, when a component is described as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components between them.

[0061] Unless otherwise specified in the content, singular expressions include plural meanings.

[0062] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17 and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 1 It is obvious to those skilled in the art that the aerosol generating device 1 can be omitted or modified according to different designs. Figure 1 Some of the components shown may be further added.

[0064] The sensor 13 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the surrounding state of the aerosol generating device 1 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 12. The control unit 12 can control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform other functions based on the detected information, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether to insert the stick S and / or the cartridge 19, displaying notifications, etc.

[0065] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131 , a puff sensor 132 , an insertion detection sensor 133 and a reuse sensor 134 , a cartridge detection sensor 135 , a cover detection sensor 136 , and a motion detection sensor 137 , but is not limited thereto.

[0066] The temperature sensor 131 can detect the heating temperature of the heater 24 and / or heater 18. The aerosol generating device 1 can include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 itself can be used as a temperature sensor.

[0067] The temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element, the resistance value of which changes in response to changes in the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented by a thermistor, etc., which is an element that utilizes the characteristic that resistance changes with temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 can be configured as a sensor for detecting the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. At this time, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0068] The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged around the power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor 131 may be provided near the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of a battery serving as the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0069] The temperature sensor 131 may be provided inside the main body 10 to sense the internal temperature of the main body 10 .

[0070] The puff sensor 132 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 can be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 can correspond to the pressure in the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 can be provided corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0071] The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the rod S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can sense a signal change based on the insertion and / or removal of the rod S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can be installed near the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the rod S based on a change in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0072] An inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be positioned near the insertion space. For example, when the magnetic field around the coil changes, the properties of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. The properties of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, and the like.

[0073] An inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the properties of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0074] The capacitive sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be arranged near the insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surrounding environment (e.g., the capacitance around the conductor). For example, when a rod S including a metal casing is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties around the conductor may be altered by the casing of the rod S.

[0075] The reuse detection sensor 134 can sense whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can sense the color of the stick S. The color sensor can sense the partial color of the outer packaging of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the value of an optical characteristic corresponding to the color of the object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical characteristic can be the wavelength of light. The color sensor can be implemented as a single component together with the proximity sensor, or it can be implemented as a separate component from the proximity sensor.

[0076] At least a portion of the packaging material comprising the stick S may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the packaging material changes color due to the aerosol when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before a user uses the stick S, at least a portion of the packaging material may be a first color. In this case, when the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the packaging material may become wetted by the aerosol, and the color of at least a portion of the packaging material may change to a second color. Furthermore, after changing from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the packaging material may remain at the second color.

[0077] The cartridge detection sensor 135 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, or a Hall IC sensor utilizing the Hall effect.

[0078] The lid detection sensor 136 can sense the installation and / or removal of the lid. When the lid is removed from the main body 10, the cigarette cartridge 19 and a portion of the main body 10 covered by the lid may be exposed to the outside. The lid detection sensor 136 can be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0079] The motion detection sensor 137 may sense the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion detection sensor 137 may be implemented by at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0080] In addition to the aforementioned sensors ( 131 to 137 ), the sensor 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), and a proximity sensor. Since those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, a detailed description is omitted.

[0081] The output unit 14 can output status information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. The output unit 14 can include at least one of a display 141, a tactile unit 142, and a sound output unit 143, but is not limited thereto. When the display 141 and the touchpad are stacked to form a touch screen, the display 141 can function not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0082] The display 141 can visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 can include various information, such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the wand S and / or the cigarette cartridge 19, the installation / removal status of the cap, or the use restriction status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., detection of an abnormality). The display 141 can output this information externally. For example, the display 141 can be an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 141 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like.

[0083] The tactile portion 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation to provide the user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 for a set period of time, the tactile portion 142 can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. For example, the tactile portion 142 can include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0084] The sound output unit 143 can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 through sound. For example, the sound output unit 143 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0085] The power source 11 can provide the power required to operate the aerosol-generating device 1. The power source 11 can provide power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, the power source 11 can provide power to operate other components of the aerosol-generating device 1 (e.g., the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17). The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] although Figure 1 Not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power source 11 and may include a switching element.

[0087] The power protection circuit can cut off the electrical path of the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a first voltage corresponding to overcharge, the power protection circuit can cut off the electrical path of the power supply 11. For example, when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge, the power protection circuit can cut off the electrical path of the power supply 11.

[0088] The heater 18 may receive power from the power source 11 to heat the medium or aerosol generating material in the rod S. Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power source 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating device 1 uses induction heating to generate aerosol, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a DC / AC converter to convert the direct current from the power source 11 into alternating current.

[0089] The control unit 12, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 can receive power from the power supply 11 to realize their functions. Figure 1 Although not shown in the figure, a power conversion circuit, such as a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component may also be included. Figure 10Although not shown, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and at least one capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be made of any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials can include metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nickel-chromium, etc., but are not limited thereto. Furthermore, the heater 18 can be implemented as a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate provided with a conductive track, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0091] In another embodiment, the heater 18 may be an induction heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a base that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substance.

[0092] The input unit 15 can receive information input by the user and can also output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 can be a touch panel. The touch panel can include at least one touch sensor for sensing touch. For example, the touch sensor can include a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0093] The display 141 and the touch panel may be implemented as a single panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display 141 (eg, an on-cell type or an in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added to the display 141 (eg, an add-on type).

[0094] In addition, the input unit 15 may include a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a roller, a roller switch, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0095] Memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed by the aerosol generating device 1. It can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 is at least one of the following storage media: flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, card-type memory (such as SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, or optical disk. Memory 17 can store 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 user smoking pattern data.

[0096] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0097] The short-range wireless communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an ultra wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0098] The wireless communication part may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication part, an Internet communication part, a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN) communication part, and the like.

[0099] although Figure 1Not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0100] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as a plurality of logic gate arrays or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs executable by the microprocessor. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the at least one processor may be other forms of hardware.

[0101] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supply from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature curve stored in the memory 17.

[0102] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) located between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and electrically connected to the power supply 11. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or an induction coil (not shown). The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented using a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 may control the power supply circuit.

[0103] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit can be an inverter that converts the direct current output by the power source 11 into alternating current. For example, the inverter can be configured as a half-bridge circuit or a full-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements.

[0104] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element to supply power from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element to cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied from the power supply 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulses input to the switching element.

[0105] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter for reducing the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented by a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0106] Control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of a switching element included in the power conversion circuit. When the switching element is in the on state, the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit can correspond to the voltage level output by power supply 11. The duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the voltage output by the power conversion circuit to the voltage output by power supply 11. As the duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the voltage level output by the power conversion circuit can decrease. Heater 18 can heat based on the voltage output by the power conversion circuit.

[0107] The control portion 12 may control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) scheme.

[0108] For example, the control portion 12 may control a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied using a PWM scheme to the heater 18. The control portion 12 may control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0109] For example, the control unit 12 may determine a target temperature, i.e., a control target, based on the temperature curve. The control unit 12 may control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID scheme, which is a feedback control scheme using a difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0110] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to stop supplying power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a predetermined proportion based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset temperature limit. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 is exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeding the temperature limit and cut off the power to the cartridge heater 24.

[0111] The control unit 12 may control the charge and discharge of the power source 11. The control unit 12 may confirm the temperature of the power source 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0112] When the power cord is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 12 can confirm whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a first temperature limit, which is a criterion for cutting off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is less than the first temperature limit, the control unit 12 can control the power supply 11 to charge according to a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to the first temperature limit, the control unit 12 can cut off the charging of the power supply 11.

[0113] When the aerosol generating device 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 can determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a second temperature limit, which serves as a criterion for shutting off the power supply 11 from discharging. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is less than the second temperature limit, the control unit 12 can control the use of the power stored in the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to the second temperature limit, the control unit 12 can stop using the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0114] The control portion 12 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source 11. For example, the control portion 12 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power source 11 based on the voltage of the power source 11 and / or the sensed current value.

[0115] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S is inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. When it is determined that the stick S is inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0116] The control unit 12 can determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space using the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, when the temperature of the heater 18 is greater than or equal to the temperature limit, or when the temperature gradient of the heater 18 is greater than or equal to a set gradient, the control unit 12 can determine that the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. If it is determined that the rod S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0117] The control unit 12 can control the duration and / or amount of power supplied to the heater 18 based on the state of the rod S sensed by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can identify a level range encompassing the capacitance sensor signal level based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the moisture content in the rod S based on the identified level range.

[0118] When the rod S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 may increase the preheating time of the rod S relative to the case where the rod S is in a normal state by controlling the power supply time of the heater 18 .

[0119] The control unit 12 can use the reuse detection sensor 134 to determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a first reference range including a first color. When the sensed value falls within the first reference range, the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 can compare the sensed value of the signal from the reuse detection sensor 134 with a second reference range including a second color. When the sensed value falls within the second reference range, the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been used. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0120] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cigarette cartridge 19 is coupled and / or removed through the cigarette cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cigarette cartridge 19 is coupled and / or removed based on the sensed value of the signal of the cigarette cartridge detection sensor 135.

[0121] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 is depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a temperature limit during the preheating period. The control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 is depleted when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the temperature limit. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 is depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0122] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cigarette cartridge 19 is usable. For example, when the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs in the cigarette cartridge 19 set based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cigarette cartridge 19 is unusable. For example, when the total heating time of the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a preset maximum time, or when the total power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can determine that the cigarette cartridge 19 is unusable.

[0123] The control unit 12 can determine the user's inhalation using the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensed value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensed value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. When the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs or when no puff is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0124] The control portion 12 may determine whether the cap is put on and / or taken off through the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control portion 12 may determine whether the cap is put on and / or taken off based on a sensed value of a signal of the cap detection sensor 136.

[0125] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the sensing results of the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user of the imminent end of the aerosol generating device 1 through at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, or the sound output unit 143. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can notify the user through the output unit 14 based on a determination that the cigarette cartridge 19 and / or the lid are not installed. For example, the control unit 12 can provide the user with information about the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 through the output unit 14.

[0126] Based on the occurrence of predetermined events, the control unit 12 can store and update a history of the events in the memory 17. These events may include detecting the insertion of a stick S, starting heating of the stick S, detecting a puff, ending a puff, detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detecting overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, ending heating of the stick S, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating device 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, detecting overcharging of the power supply 11, ending charging of the power supply 11, and the like. These operations are performed by the aerosol generating device 1. The history of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, and the like. For example, if the predetermined event is detecting the insertion of a stick S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the sensed value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the current flowing in the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, etc.

[0127] The control unit 12 can control the formation of a communication link with an external device (e.g., a user's mobile terminal). Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. The authentication data can include data indicating that user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device has been completed. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, or the like, and receive permission data for using the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. Based on the permission data, the external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1. In response to the completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, in response to the completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on the heating function for supplying power to the heater 18.

[0128] The control unit 12 can transmit the status data of the aerosol generating device 1 to the external device via a communication link with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, the operating mode, etc. through the display of the external device.

[0129] The external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input initiating a search for the location of the aerosol generating device 1. Upon receiving the location search request from the external device, the control unit 12 may control at least one output device to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0130] When firmware data is received from an external device, the control unit 12 may control the execution of a firmware update. The external device may check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When an input requesting a firmware download is received, the external device may receive the new version of the firmware data and transmit the new version of the firmware data to the aerosol generating device 1. When the new version of the firmware data is received, the control unit 12 may control the update of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0131] The control unit 12 can transmit the sensed value data of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, receive a learning model generated by learning the sensed values ​​through machine learning (e.g., deep learning) from the external server, and store the learned model. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the external server to perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can store the sensed value data of at least one sensor 13 and data used for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component provided in the aerosol generating device 1, weights forming the ANN structure, and bias. The control unit 12 can generate at least one learning model that learns the sensed value of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, and other data stored in the memory 17, and use it to determine the user's inhalation pattern and generate the temperature profile.

[0132] Figure 2 and Figure 3 1 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3The aerosol generating device 1 may include a main body 10 and a cigarette cartridge 19. The aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the power supply 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be disposed within the main body 10. The cigarette cartridge 19 is an aerosol generating product that can be mounted on the main body 10. A user may place a mouthpiece disposed at one end of the cigarette cartridge 19 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0134] The cartridge 19 can contain an aerosol-generating material in any of liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel states within the internal chamber C0. The aerosol-generating material can include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition can be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

[0135] The cigarette cartridge 19 is detachably coupled to the main body 10. The cigarette cartridge 19 can be inserted into the main body 10 to be mounted on the main body 10.

[0136] The body 10 may be formed so that when the cartridge 19 is inserted into the body 10, external air may be introduced into the body 10. At this time, the external air introduced into the body 10 may pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth through the airflow channel CN.

[0137] The cigarette cartridge 19 may include a chamber CO containing an aerosol-generating material and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating material in the chamber CO. A liquid transfer device 25 impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating material may be provided within the chamber CO. The liquid transfer device 25 may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, or the like. The conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed as a coil-type structure wrapped around the liquid transfer device 25 or in contact with one side of the liquid transfer device 25. The heater 24 may be referred to as a cigarette cartridge heater.

[0138] The cigarette cartridge 19 can generate aerosol. The liquid transfer device 25 can generate aerosol when heated by the cigarette cartridge heater 24. The generated aerosol can be inhaled into the user's mouth through the air flow channel CN.

[0139] The air flow channel CN ​​can be provided in the cigarette cartridge 19, and the air flow channel CN ​​can be connected to the chamber C1 (see Figure 3 ) and the outside of the cigarette cartridge 19. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​can lead to the chamber C1 where the heater 24 is placed, and the other end can be connected to the mouthpiece 35. For example, referring to Figure 2 , the air flow channel CN ​​can extend from one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19 along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19. For example, referring to Figure 3The airflow channel CN ​​can pass through the chamber C0 of the cigarette cartridge 10 and extend along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette cartridge 19.

[0140] The power supply 11 can provide power to the various components of the aerosol generating device 1. The power supply 11 can be called a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the cartridge heater 24.

[0141] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 can be mounted on a PCB. The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, the sensor 13, and the cigarette cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can also control the operation of the display, motor, and other components installed in the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 can verify the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0142] The control unit 12 can analyze the sensing results obtained by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes to be executed. For example, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 based on the sensing results obtained by the sensor 13 to start or end the operation of the cartridge heater 24. For example, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and the duration of power supply based on the sensing results obtained by the sensor 13 so that the cartridge heater 24 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a desired temperature.

[0143] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a motion detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 may sense at least one of the temperature of the cartridge heater 24, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the temperature inside or outside the main body 10. For example, the sensor 13 may sense a user's puff. For example, the sensor 13 may sense whether the cartridge 19 is installed. For example, the sensor 13 may sense movement of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0144] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] Reference Figure 4 The aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body 10 and a cartridge 19. The cartridge 19 may include a first container 20 and a second container 30. The cartridge 19 may be coupled to the main body 10.

[0146] The main body 10 may house a power supply 11 and a control unit 12. The power supply 11 may provide power required to operate the components. The power supply 11 may be referred to as a battery 11. The control unit 12 may control the operation of the components.

[0147] The first container 20 may provide a first chamber C1 therein. The first container 20 may be provided with a core material 25. The core material 25 may be provided in the first chamber C1. The upper end of the core material 25 may protrude from the first chamber C1 toward the upper side of the first container 20.

[0148] The first container 20 may be provided with a heater 2531. The heater 2531 may be disposed in the first chamber C1. The heater 2531 may heat the core material 25. The heater 2531 may be attached to the core material 25. The first container 20 may be provided with a terminal 223 therein. The terminal 223 may be exposed at the bottom of the first container 20. The terminal 223 may be electrically connected to the heater 2531. The first container 20 may be referred to as a lower container 20 or a heating module 20.

[0149] The first container 20 may be provided with a first air flow inlet 241 formed when the first chamber C1 is opened. The first container 20 may be provided with a first air flow outlet 242 formed when the first chamber C1 is opened.

[0150] The second container 30 may have a second chamber C2 disposed therein. The second container 30 may store liquid in the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may have an airflow discharge channel 340. Both ends 341 and 342 of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be separated from the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may be referred to as an upper container 30 or a liquid storage portion 30.

[0151] The suction nozzle 35 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 30. The suction nozzle 35 may cover the upper portion of the second container 30. The suction nozzle 35 may be provided with a second airflow outlet 354 therein. The second airflow outlet 354 may be communicated with the other end 342 of the airflow discharge channel 340.

[0152] The first container 20 may be coupled to the main body 10. The first container 20 may be inserted into the interior of the main body 10. When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the heater 2531 may be electrically connected to the power source 11 through the terminal 223. The heater 2531 may generate heat by receiving power from the power source 11. The heater 2531 may be a resistive heater.

[0153] The second container 30 may be coupled to an upper side of the first container 20. Coupling the second container 30 to the first container 20 may include directly coupling the second container 30 to the first container 20, and coupling the second container 30 to the body 10 and thereby indirectly coupling to the first container 20.

[0154] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply the stored liquid to the core material 25. The core material 25 can receive and absorb the liquid from the second container 30. The heater 2531 can generate aerosol in the first chamber C1 by heating the core material 25 that has absorbed the liquid.

[0155] The main body 10 may have an open side, thereby providing a second air flow inlet 141. When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the first air flow inlet 241 may be connected to the second air flow inlet 141. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, one end 341 of the air flow discharge channel 340 may be connected to the first air flow outlet 242. In this way, a channel for air flow can be formed. The user can inhale air while holding the nozzle 35 in the mouth. When the user inhales air, external air can pass through the second air flow inlet 141, the first air flow inlet 241, the first chamber C1, the first air flow outlet 242, the air flow discharge channel 340 and the second air flow outlet 354 in sequence and be provided to the user. The air can flow together with the aerosol generated in the first chamber C1.

[0156] Therefore, the first container 20 and the second container 30 can be replaced independently of each other. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20 can be different, and the user can replace only the second container 30 or only the first container 20. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 can be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20, and the first container 20 can be replaced only once while the second container 30 can be replaced multiple times. This allows the first container 20 to be used for a longer period of time and reduces the cost of replacing cigarette cartridges.

[0157] Figure 5 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the main body and the cigarette cartridge of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] Reference Figure 5 , the first container 20 is detachably coupled to the main body 10. The first coupler 151 detachably couples the first container 20 and the main body 10. For example, the first coupler 151 may include a hook groove 225 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 225. The hook 125 may be formed of a material such as rubber or silicone and may seal between the main body and the first container 20 around the second airflow inlet 141. As another example, the first coupler 151 may couple the first container 20 and the main body 10 using magnetic force.

[0159] The second container 30 is detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the main body 10, thereby indirectly coupling to the first container 20. The second coupler 152 detachably couples the second container 30 and the main body 10. For example, the second coupler 152 may include a hook groove 325 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 325. As another example, the second coupler 152 may couple the second container 30 and the main body 10 using magnetic force.

[0160] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 7 4 is a bottom perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] Reference Figure 6 The first container 20 may include a case 21, a core material 25 and a heater 2531 (see Figure 7 The housing 21 may include a first housing 22 and a second housing 23 .

[0162] The second housing 23 may be coupled to the upper side of the first housing 22. The first housing 22 may be open upward and may have a space 224 to form a first chamber C1. The second housing 23 may be open downward and may have a space 234 to form the first chamber C1. The first and second housings 22, 23 may be coupled vertically to form the first chamber C1 therein.

[0163] The terminal 223 may be fixed to the bottom of the first housing 22 and exposed at a lower portion of the first housing 22. The terminal 223 may protrude upward from the first housing 22 to the first cavity C1. A pair of terminals 223 may be provided to be horizontally spaced apart from each other.

[0164] The first air flow inlet 241 may be formed at the bottom of the first housing 22. A plurality of first air flow inlets 241 may be formed to form a multi-hole shape. The first air flow inlet 241 may be spaced apart from the terminal 223 in the horizontal direction. The first air flow inlet 241 may be formed to open on the lateral wall of the first housing 22 and / or the side wall of the second housing 23.

[0165] The housing 21 may be provided with a component of the first coupler 151. For example, the hook groove 225 may be formed as a depression in the lower periphery of the first housing 22. As another example, the hook 125 may be formed as a protrusion in the lower periphery of the first housing 22. As another example, the first housing 21 may be provided with a magnet or a ferromagnetic body.

[0166] The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on an upper wall of the second housing 23. As another example, the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on a side wall of the second housing 23. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed at a position facing the first airflow inlet 241.

[0167] The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on the upper wall of the second housing 23. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on the upper side of the first cavity C1. The liquid inlet 235 may be separated from the second airflow outlet 242. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on one side of the upper wall of the second housing 23, while the second airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the other side of the upper wall of the second housing 23. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on the side corresponding to the terminal 223 and the support member 227, while the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the side corresponding to the first airflow inlet 241.

[0168] The core 25 may include a first core portion 251 and a second core portion 252. The first core portion 251 may be disposed in the first cavity C1 between the first shell 22 and the second shell 23. A lower edge of the first core portion 252 may be supported by the support 227.

[0169] The second core portion 252 may protrude upward from the first core portion 251. The second core portion 252 may be exposed to the outside of the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlet 235. The second core portion 252 may protrude upward through the liquid inlet 235 and the first core sealing portion 265.

[0170] Reference Figure 7 The heater 2531 may be coupled to the first core portion 251. The heater 2531 may heat the first core portion 251. First terminals 2533 formed at both ends of the heater 2531 may contact the second terminal 223 and electrically connect the heater 2531 to the second terminal 223.

[0171] The support member 227 may protrude upward from the bottom of the first housing 22. The support member 227 may be formed around the terminal 223. The support member 227 may be provided in plurality and arranged around the terminal 223. The support member 227 may include a first support member 227a and a second support member 227b. The first support member 227a and the second support member 227b may be provided in an area corresponding to the lower edge of the first core portion 251.

[0172] The first support member 227a and the second support member 227b may be spaced apart from each other. The second support member 227b may be formed at a position adjacent to the first air flow inlet 242. The second support member 227b may be formed between the terminal 223 and the first air flow inlet 241. The second support member 227b may be formed in a pair. The pair of second support members 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a first gap 227c therebetween. The first support member 227a and the second support member 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a second gap 227d therebetween.

[0173] The seal 26 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The sealing plate 261 of the seal 26 may cover the upper side of the housing 21. The seal 26 may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the seal 26 may be formed of rubber or silicone.

[0174] The seal 26 may include a first core material sealing portion 265. The first core material sealing portion 265 may be formed when the sealing plate 261 is opened at a position corresponding to the liquid inlet 235. The first core material sealing portion 265 may form an inner peripheral surface of the sealing plate 261. The first core material sealing portion 265 may have a shape corresponding to the peripheral surface 235a surrounding the liquid inlet 235. The first core material sealing portion 265 may protrude downward from the sealing plate 261 and be in close contact with the inner side of the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The second core material portion 252 may protrude toward the upper side of the liquid inlet 235 through the first core material sealing portion 265.

[0175] The seal 26 may include a second core material sealing portion 262. The second core material sealing portion 262 may protrude downward from below the sealing plate 261. The second core material sealing portion 262 may be formed on the lower side of the first core material sealing portion 265, or may be formed on the lower side around the first core material sealing portion 265. The second core material sealing portion 262 may extend along the periphery of the first core material sealing portion 265.

[0176] The seal 26 may include sealing walls 266, 267 that protrude upward from the top of the sealing plate 261. The sealing walls 266, 267 may surround the liquid inlet 235 and the first core material sealing portion 265. The sealing walls 266, 267 may extend along the periphery of the first core material sealing portion 265 to form a periphery. The sealing walls 266, 267 may be formed in a plurality. For example, the sealing walls 266, 267 may include a first sealing wall 266 adjacent to the first core material sealing portion 265 and a second sealing wall 267 spaced outward from the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude upward to be higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may surround the first sealing wall 266.

[0177] The seal 26 may include an airflow sealing portion 268. The airflow sealing portion 268 may surround the first airflow outlet 242. The airflow sealing portion 268 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the sealing plate 261. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the airflow sealing portion 268. The airflow sealing portion 268 may be formed on the outer sides of the sealing walls 266 and 267.

[0178] The core material 25 can be formed into a porous rigid body that absorbs liquid. For example, the core material 25 can be formed of porous ceramics. The core material 25 can have stronger rigidity or heat resistance than a cotton core.

[0179] Therefore, the core material 25 can be realized in a shape that is not deformed or has a small deformation as well as various shapes. In addition, the durability of the core material 25 can be improved, and the replacement cycle of the first container 20 provided with the core material 25 can be increased.

[0180] The first core portion 251 may extend horizontally to one side. The first core portion 251 may have a hexahedron shape. The top of the first core portion 251 may be horizontally formed. The bottom of the first core portion 251 may be horizontally formed. The side of the first core portion 251 may be formed between the upper periphery and the lower periphery to define the periphery of the first core portion 251. The side of the first core portion 251 may be referred to as the peripheral surface of the first core portion 251.

[0181] The second core portion 252 may protrude upward from the center of the upper surface of the first core portion 251. The second core portion 252 may extend in a horizontal direction. The second core portion 252 may have a hexahedral shape. The upper surface of the second core portion 252 may be formed horizontally. The lower surface of the second core portion 252 may be formed horizontally. The lower surface of the second core portion 252 may overlap with the upper surface of the first core portion 251. The side surface of the second core portion 252 may be formed between the upper periphery and the lower periphery to define the periphery of the second core portion 252. The side surface of the second core portion 252 may be referred to as the peripheral surface of the second core portion 252.

[0182] The first core portion 251 may be larger than the second core portion 252. The perimeter of the upper surface of the first core portion 251 may be larger than the perimeter of the upper surface of the second core portion 252. The height of the first core portion 251 may be larger than the height of the second core portion 252. The length of the first core portion 251 may be larger than the length of the second core portion 252. The width of the first core portion 251 may be larger than the width of the second core portion 252.

[0183] The first core portion 251 may further protrude horizontally outward by a certain width from the bottom of the second core portion 252. The second core portion 252 may protrude from the inner side of the upper periphery of the first core portion 251. The upper periphery of the first core portion 251 may protrude outward from the bottom of the second core portion 252.

[0184] The heater 2531 may be attached to the first core portion 251. The heater 2531 may form a pattern on the lower surface of the first core portion 251. The heater 2531 may form various patterns in the longitudinal direction of the first core portion 251. Both ends of the heater 2531 may be adjacent to both ends of the first core portion 251.

[0185] A pair of first terminals 2533 may be formed at both ends of the heater 2531. The first terminals 2533 may be coupled to the lower surface of the first core portion 251. The pair of first terminals 2533 may be adjacent to both ends of the first terminal 2533. The first terminals 2533 may protrude toward the lower side of the first core portion 251.

[0186] Figure 8 4 is a cross-sectional view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] Reference Figure 8 , the first air flow inlet 241 can be formed on the lower side of the first chamber C1. The first air flow outlet 242 can be formed on the upper side of the first chamber C1. The first air flow inlet 241 and the first air flow outlet 242 can be formed vertically side by side. The core material 25 can be arranged on the right side of the first chamber C1, and the first air flow inlet 241 and the first air flow outlet 242 can be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. A first channel CN1 can be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1, and the first air flow inlet 241 and the first air flow outlet 242 are provided on the first channel CN1. Air can enter the first channel CN1 through the first air flow inlet 241 and can be discharged through the first air flow outlet 242.

[0188] The first terminal 2533 contacts the second terminal 223, thereby electrically connecting the heater 2531 and the second terminal 223. The second terminal 223 may support the first terminal 2533 and the lower surface 2513 of the first core portion 251.

[0189] The lower portion of the first core portion 251 may be supported by the support member 227. The upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251 may be supported by the second housing 23 and / or the lower portion of the second core sealing portion 262 near the liquid inlet 235. The periphery of the side portion 2522 of the second core portion 252 may be supported by the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235 and / or the inner surface of the first core sealing portion 265.

[0190] Thus, the core material 25 can be fixed to the first container 20 .

[0191] The support member 227 can separate the first core portion 2511 upward from the bottom of the first chamber C1. The support member 227 can be disposed near the heater 2513. The support member 227 can form gaps 227c and 227d so that the heater 2531 attached to the lower surface 2513 of the first core portion 2511 communicates with the first chamber C1. The support member 227 can open between the first channel CN1 and the heater 2531 to form a first gap 227c.

[0192] The support member 227 may include a first support member 227a and a second support member 227b. The second support member 227b may be disposed closer to the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 than the first support member 227a. The first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be adjacent to the left side of the first core portion 251. The first support member 227a may extend along the right side edge between the bottom 2513 and the side 2512 of the first core portion 251. The first support member 227a may support the vicinity of the right side edge between the bottom 2513 and the side 2512 of the first core portion 251. A pair of second support members 227b may support the vicinity of the left vertex of the first core portion 251.

[0193] The pair of second support members 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a first gap 227c that allows air to flow between the vicinity of the heater 2531 and the first air flow inlet 242. The first support member 227a and the second support member 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a second gap 227d that allows air to flow between the vicinity of the heater 2531 and the first air flow inlet 242. The first gap 227c and the second gap 227d may be formed near the lower surface 2513 of the first core portion 251.

[0194] Therefore, the aerosol generated by the core material 25 and the surrounding air can pass through the vicinity of the pair of multiple support members 227 and flow smoothly toward the first airflow outlet 242 .

[0195] The first core material sealing portion 265 may be disposed between the peripheral surface 2522 of the second core material portion 252 and the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The inner peripheral surface of the first core material sealing portion 265 may be in close contact with the peripheral surface 2522 of the second core material portion 252. The first core material sealing portion 265 may seal between the peripheral surface 2522 of the second core material portion 252 and the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235.

[0196] The circumference of the upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251 may be greater than the circumference of the liquid inlet 235. The circumference of the upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251 may be formed horizontally further outward than the circumference of the liquid inlet 235. The edge portion of the first core portion 251 may absorb liquid leaking between the liquid inlet 235 and the peripheral surface 2522 of the second core portion 252.

[0197] The second core sealing portion 262 may protrude downward from the vicinity of the liquid inlet 235 toward the upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251. The second core sealing portion 262 may be in close contact with the upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251. The second core sealing portion 262 may support the upper surface 2511 of the first core portion 251.

[0198] This prevents the liquid supplied from the second container 30 to the core 25 from leaking into the first chamber C1 from between the second core portion 252 and the peripheral surface 235 a of the liquid inlet 235 without being absorbed by the core 25 .

[0199] Figure 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a first container and a second container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a coupling between a first container and a second container of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 11 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an airflow channel of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] Reference Figure 9 The second container 30 may include a second chamber C2 for storing liquid. When the second chamber C2 is opened, a liquid outlet 314 may be formed. The liquid outlet 314 may be formed at the lower portion of the second chamber C2. The liquid outlet 314 may be formed as a plurality of holes. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 may be discharged through the liquid outlet 314.

[0201] The absorption part 316 may block a lower portion of the liquid outlet 314. The absorption part 316 may absorb liquid passing through the liquid outlet 314. For example, the absorption part 316 may be formed of a felt material.

[0202] A bracket 317 may protrude from the vicinity of the liquid outlet 314 toward the lower side of the second container 30. The bracket 317 may surround the lateral periphery of the absorbent portion 316. The absorbent portion 316 may be exposed to the lower side of the second container 30 from the bracket 317. The bracket 317 may secure the absorbent portion 316 to the lower portion of the first container 30. The bracket 317 may support the lower periphery of the absorbent portion 316 in the form of a hook.

[0203] The film can be detachably attached to the underside of the absorbent portion 316. The edge of the film can be attached to the underside of the bracket 317. The film can be formed of a waterproof material. The film can prevent liquid from leaking from the absorbent portion 316. Before coupling the second container 30 to the first container 20, the user can remove the film from the absorbent portion 316.

[0204] The bottom surface 312 of the second container 30 is recessed upward to form a recessed portion 315. The recessed portion 315 forms a groove that surrounds the bracket 317.

[0205] The second container 30 may be provided with a component of the second coupler 152. For example, the hook groove 325 may be formed by a depression in the outer sidewall of the second container 30. As another example, the hook 125 may be formed by a protrusion from the outer sidewall of the second container 30. As another example, the second container 30 may be provided with a magnet or a ferromagnetic body.

[0206] The second container 30 may provide an airflow discharge channel 340. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be separated from the second chamber C2 by the inner sidewall of the second container 30. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be defined by the outer sidewall and the inner sidewall of the second container 30. Both ends of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may open downward. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may open upward. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be formed to open at the bottom 312 of the second container 30. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be connected to a second airflow outlet 354 formed inside the suction nozzle 35. The airflow discharge channel 340 may be referred to as a second channel CN2.

[0207] Reference Figure 10 , the first container 20 is detachably coupled to the main body 10. The first coupler 151 detachably couples the first container 20 and the main body 10. The second container 30 is detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 can be coupled to the main body 10 through the second coupler 152, thereby indirectly coupling to the first container 20. The second container 30 can be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20.

[0208] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply liquid to the core material 25. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 can pass through the liquid outlet 314 and be absorbed into the absorbent portion 316. The absorbent portion 316, having absorbed the liquid, can contact the second core material portion 252 and transfer the liquid. The liquid absorbed into the second core material portion 252 can be diffused into the first core material portion 251. The heater 3531 can generate an aerosol by heating the first core material portion 251 that has absorbed the liquid.

[0209] The seal 26 can seal the vicinity of the liquid inlet 235 where the core material 25 is exposed from the first cavity C1. When the second container 30 is coupled to the upper side of the first container 20, the seal 26 can seal between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

[0210] The sealing walls 266, 267 may protrude toward the second container 30. The sealing walls 266, 267 may be in close contact with the second container 30. The sealing walls 266, 267 may surround the liquid inlet 235.

[0211] Thus, the liquid discharged from the second container 30 can be prevented from leaking into the gap between the first container 20 and the second container 30 .

[0212] The first sealing wall 266 may surround the liquid inlet 235 and the periphery 2522 of the second core material portion 252. The first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with the lower portion of the second container 30. The first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with a protrusion formed inside the recessed portion 315. For example, the first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with the bracket 317. The bracket 317 and the first sealing wall 266 may surround the periphery 2522 of the second core material portion 252. Thus, the bracket 317 may not only fix the absorbent portion 316, but also compress the first sealing wall 266 to seal the second core material portion 252 and the vicinity of the liquid inlet 235.

[0213] The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may be horizontally disposed outward from the first sealing wall 266 to wrap the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may be in close contact with the lower portion of the second container 30. The second sealing wall 267 may be inserted into a groove formed by the recessed portion 315 and in close contact with the recessed portion 315.

[0214] Thus, the first sealing wall 266 can seal the second core material portion 252 and the vicinity of the liquid inlet 235. In addition, even if the liquid passes outside the first sealing wall 266, it can be sealed by the second sealing wall 267.

[0215] Reference Figure 11, the first channel CN1 can be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. The core material 25 and the heater 2531 can be arranged on the right side of the first chamber C1. The first channel CN1 can be provided with a first air flow inlet 241 and a first air flow outlet 242. The first air flow inlet 241 can be formed at one end of the first channel CN1. The first air flow outlet 242 can be formed at the other end of the first channel CN1. The first channel CN1 can be staggered with the core material 25 based on the vertical direction. The core material 25 can be separated from the gap between the first air flow inlet 241 and the second air flow inlet 242. Different from the accompanying drawings, at least one of the first air flow inlet 241 and the first air flow outlet 242 can be formed as a side wall of the first container 20 opening in the first channel CN1.

[0216] When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, a second airflow inlet 141 formed on one side of the main body 10 can communicate with the first airflow inlet 241. The gap between the main body 10 and the first container 20 can be sealed near the second airflow inlet 141. For example, the hook 125 can seal the gap between the main body 10 and the first container 20 near the second airflow inlet 141.

[0217] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20 , the first airflow outlet 242 can communicate with the lower end of the second channel CN2 . The first channel CN1 and the second channel CN2 can communicate with each other to form a single channel CN. The second channel CN2 can communicate with the second airflow outlet 354 .

[0218] When a user holds the nozzle 35 in their mouth and inhales air, external air can sequentially pass through the second airflow inlet 141, the first channel CN1, the second channel CN2, and the second airflow outlet 354 and be provided to the user. Aerosol can be generated in the first chamber C1 separated from the first channel CN1. The air passing through the first channel CN1 can flow together with the air and aerosol in the first chamber C1 due to suction and pressure difference. The air and aerosol can flow into the first channel CN1 through the first gap 227c and the second gap 227d between the support members 227.

[0219] Thus, air can flow only in one side of the first chamber C1 , thereby reducing the size of the channel and reducing or optimizing the size of the aerosol generating device. In addition, the structure of the supporting core 25 can reduce airflow resistance.

[0220] The airflow sealing portion 268 can be in close contact with the lower portion of the second container 30 near the lower end of the second channel CN2. The airflow sealing portion 268 can wrap the lower end of the second channel CN2 and the first airflow outlet 242. The airflow sealing portion 268 can seal between the first container 20 and the second container 30 near the lower end of the airflow discharge channel 340 and the first airflow outlet 242.

[0221] Thus, it is possible to prevent the air passing through the air discharge passage 340 from the first air flow outlet 242 from leaking between the first container 20 and the second container 30 , thereby improving the flow efficiency of the air.

[0222] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "approximately," "generally," and "about" with respect to a given parameter, attribute, or condition can include the extent to which a given parameter, attribute, or condition is met with a small degree of variance as understood by those skilled in the art, such as within an acceptable manufacturing tolerance. For example, a particular parameter that is substantially met can be at least about 90% met, at least about 95% met, or at least about 99% met.

[0223] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a heater according to an embodiment. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 An enlarged view of a portion of the heater. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A plan view of a portion of the heater. Figure 15 It is along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the heater observed along line 15-15.

[0224] Reference Figures 12 to 15 Heater 550 can be configured to generate heat through surface plasmon resonance (SPR). "SPR" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface between metal particles and a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of the metal particle electrons may be caused by light propagating from outside heater 550. The excitation of the metal particle electrons can generate thermal energy, and the generated thermal energy can be transferred within the environment in which heater 550 is used. In one embodiment, heater 550 can be configured to heat another object (e.g., an aerosol-generating article) by transferring the generated heat to the object.

[0225] The heater 550 may include a substrate 551 having a first face 551A (eg, a face oriented in the +Z direction) and a second face 551B (eg, a face oriented in the −Z direction) opposite to the first face 551A.

[0226] The substrate 551 may have a plate shape. The first surface 551A and / or the second surface 551B may be formed as a substantially flat surface. The substrate 551 may have any shape suitable for generating heat. For example, the substrate 551 may be implemented as a substantially cylindrical shape, with the first surface 551A serving as the outer surface and the second surface 551B serving as the inner surface.

[0227] The substrate 551 can be made of a variety of materials. For example, the substrate 551 can be formed from a metal material (e.g., aluminum), glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other suitable material. The substrate 551 can be made from any one of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), and sapphire, or a combination thereof. The substrate 551 can be made of a material with a relatively low heat transfer coefficient. This allows heat to be transferred only to a portion of the substrate 551.

[0228] The substrate 551 may be electrically conductive or electrically insulating.

[0229] The substrate 551 may be formed of any material having a thermal conductivity suitable for use in the environment in which the heater 550 is provided. For example, at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25° C., the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of approximately 0.6 W / mK or less, approximately 1 W / mK to approximately 2 W / mK, approximately 2 W / mK to approximately 5 W / mK, approximately 5 W / mK to approximately 10 W / mK, approximately 10 W / mK to approximately 100 W / mK, or approximately 100 W / mK to approximately 200 W / mK. At a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25° C., the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of approximately 0.6 W / mK or less, approximately 1.3 W / mK or less, approximately 148 W / mK, or approximately 46.06 W / mK.

[0230] The heater 550 may include a plurality of metal prisms 554 on a first side 551A of a substrate 551. The plurality of metal prisms 554 may include a plurality of metal particles deposited on the substrate 551 by any suitable deposition process (eg, physical vapor deposition).

[0231] The plurality of metal particles forming the plurality of metal prisms 554 may be nanometer-sized. For example, the average maximum diameter of the plurality of metal particles may be approximately 1 μm or less. In one embodiment, the average maximum diameter of the plurality of metal particles may be approximately 700 nm or less, approximately 600 nm or less, approximately 500 nm or less, approximately 400 nm or less, approximately 300 nm or less, approximately 200 nm or less, approximately 150 nm or less, or approximately 100 nm or less.

[0232] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of any material suitable for generating heat. For example, the plurality of metal particles may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum, aluminum, titanium, nickel, chromium, iron, cobalt, manganese, rhodium, and ruthenium, or a combination thereof.

[0233] The plurality of metal particles can be formed of any material suitable for generating heat by interacting with light in a specific wavelength band (e.g., the visible light wavelength band, i.e., approximately 380 nm to approximately 780 nm). For example, the plurality of metal particles can include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, or platinum, or a combination thereof.

[0234] The plurality of metal particles may be formed from a metal material having an average maximum absorbance. Here, the average maximum absorbance may be defined as the absorbance of a peak value that varies according to the wavelength band of light. The specific wavelength band corresponding to the aforementioned absorbance may be understood as the wavelength band in which the plurality of metal particles resonate. For example, the plurality of metal particles may be formed from a metal material having an average maximum absorbance wavelength band between approximately 430 nm and approximately 450 nm, between approximately 480 nm and approximately 500 nm, between approximately 490 nm and approximately 510 nm, between approximately 500 nm and approximately 520 nm, between approximately 550 nm and approximately 570 nm, between approximately 600 nm and approximately 620 nm, between approximately 620 nm and approximately 640 nm, between approximately 630 nm and approximately 650 nm, between approximately 640 nm and approximately 660 nm, between approximately 680 nm and approximately 700 nm, or between approximately 700 nm and approximately 750 nm. The average maximum absorbance of the plurality of metal particles may vary depending on the type of metal, the type of substrate 551 , the size of the metal prism 554 formed by the plurality of metal particles, and / or the shape of the metal prism 554 .

[0235] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may define a void area VA surrounded by the plurality of metal prisms 554 on the first surface 551A of the substrate 551. For example, the void area VA may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, and the plurality of metal prisms 554 may be arranged along the circumference of the void area VA.

[0236] The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 10 nm or more, about 50 nm or more, about 90 nm or more, about 100 nm or more, about 150 nm or more, about 200 nm or more, about 300 nm or more, about 350 nm or more, about 450 nm or more, or about 500 nm or more. The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 450 nm or more. The average maximum diameter of the void areas VA may be about 350 nm or more.

[0237] The average maximum diameter of the void area VA may be about 1000 nm or less, about 900 nm or less, about 800 nm or less, about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, or about 550 nm or less.

[0238] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may each include a first base surface 554A (e.g., a lower base surface) facing the first surface 551A of the substrate 551, a second base surface 554B (e.g., an upper base surface) opposite the first base surface 554A, and a plurality of side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 located between the first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B.

[0239] The first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0240] The first base surface 554A and / or the second base surface 554B may be substantially flat.

[0241] In one embodiment, the distance between the first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B (e.g., the thickness of the metal prism 554) may be approximately 10 nm or less. When the thickness of the metal prism 554 exceeds 10 nm, the exothermic reaction of the plurality of metal particles forming the metal prism 554 may be reduced, thereby reducing the thermal efficiency of the heater 550.

[0242] The plurality of side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, and 554C3 may face different directions. For example, the first side surface 554C1 may face a first direction (e.g., a first radial direction), the second side surface 554C2 may be connected to the first side surface 554C1 and face a second direction (e.g., a second radial direction), and the third side surface 554C3 may be connected to each of the first side surface 554C1 and the second side surface 554C3 and face a third direction (e.g., a third radial direction).

[0243] At least one of the multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as a substantially curved surface. The multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as curved surfaces having substantially the same curvature. The curvature of any one of the multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be different from the curvature of another side surface.

[0244] The plurality of side surfaces 554C1 , 554C2 , and 554C3 may be formed as curved surfaces concave toward the center portion of the metal prism 554 . At least one of the plurality of side surfaces 554C1 , 554C2 , and 554C3 may be formed as a curved surface convex from the center portion of the metal prism 554 .

[0245] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may include two side surfaces. For example, the metal prisms 554 may have a substantially semicircular or nearly semicircular shape.

[0246] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may be positioned to be physically separated from each other on the first face 551A of the substrate 551. For example, the plurality of metal prisms 554 may be separated from each other at certain intervals along a periphery (eg, circumference) of the void area VA.

[0247] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may be spaced apart from each other at substantially equal intervals. The spacing between any pair of adjacent metal prisms 554 among the plurality of metal prisms 554 may be different from the spacing between another pair of adjacent metal prisms 554 .

[0248] Figure 16 is a plan view of a portion of a heater according to an embodiment.

[0249] Reference Figure 16 The heater 650 may include a substrate 651 and a metal prism 654 located on the substrate 651. The metal prism 654 may be substantially a single structure and define a plurality of void areas VA. For example, the metal prism 654 may substantially define the entire periphery of the plurality of void areas VA. The metal prism 654 may include a first prism area 6541 located at a position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void area VA, a second prism area 6542 located at another position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void area VA, and a third prism area 6543 located between the first prism area 6541 and the second prism area 6542. The first prism area 6541, the second prism area 6542, and the third prism area 6543 may be seamlessly connected as a whole.

[0250] Figures 17 to 19 is a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a heater according to an embodiment, wherein: Figure 17 shows depositing a plurality of metal particles on a substrate, Figure 18 Show the Figure 17 The structure is annealed (annealing process), Figure 19 Shown by Figure 18 The heater is manufactured by the annealing process.

[0251] Reference Figures 17 to 19 The method for manufacturing the heater 750 may include providing a substrate 751. The substrate 751 may have a plate shape having opposing surfaces. At least one surface of the substrate 751 may be substantially flat. At least one surface of the substrate 751 may be curved.

[0252] A method for manufacturing the heater 750 may include forming a substrate 751 on one side (e.g., Figure 17 The operation of forming a metal layer 753 on the upper surface of the substrate 751. The metal layer 753 can be formed by coating metal particles onto one side of the substrate 751. For example, the metal particles can be deposited by sputtering, ion beam deposition, thermal deposition, chemical deposition, plasma deposition and / or any other suitable deposition method. The metal layer 753 can be formed by providing a thin film on one side of the substrate 751. The thickness of the metal layer 753 can be about 10 nm or less. When the metal layer 753 is formed on the substrate 751 with a thickness greater than 10 nm, the exothermic reaction in the structure formed by the metal layer 753 (e.g., metal particles P1, P2, P3, P4) may be reduced. When the thickness of the structure formed by the metal layer 753 exceeds 10 nm, the possibility of heat loss to the surroundings of the heater 750 may increase, thereby reducing the thermal efficiency of the heater 750.

[0253] The manufacturing method for heater 750 may include annealing a metal layer 753 on a substrate 751. When annealing the metal layer 753, boundaries B (e.g., grain boundaries) may be formed between adjacent metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4. During the annealing of the metal layer 753, the heating temperature of the metal layer 753 may be greater than approximately 150°C, greater than approximately 160°C, greater than approximately 170°C, greater than approximately 180°C, greater than approximately 190°C, greater than approximately 200°C, greater than approximately 210°C, greater than approximately 220°C, greater than approximately 230°C, or greater than approximately 240°C. The plurality of metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 on the substrate 751 may deform based on the boundaries B. In the annealing environment, flux may be applied to adjacent metal segments S1 , S2 , S3 , S4 disposed on both sides based on the boundary B, and dewetting of the plurality of metal segments S1 , S2 , S3 , S4 may be induced.

[0254] In the annealing environment, a plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be formed on the substrate 751 by dehumidification. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be divided based on a boundary B. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can have random sizes. The size of any one of the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can differ from the size of another metal particle. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can be nanometer-sized. For example, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can have random sizes within a range with an average maximum diameter of less than approximately 1 μm. In certain embodiments, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 can have random sizes within a range with an average maximum diameter of less than approximately 700 nm, less than approximately 600 nm, less than approximately 500 nm, less than approximately 400 nm, less than approximately 300 nm, less than approximately 200 nm, less than approximately 150 nm, or less than approximately 100 nm. The plurality of metal particles P1 , P2 , P3 , and P4 may not be bonded to each other beyond the boundary B.

[0255] Figure 20 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0256] Reference Figure 20, the aerosol generating device 800 may include at least one heater 850 (e.g., heater 450 and / or heaters 550, 650, 750) configured to heat the aerosol generating article, and at least one light source 855 configured to emit light to the at least one heater 850. The aerosol generating device 800 may include a plurality of liquid reservoirs 830 configured to contain a liquid composition, and a core material 860 configured to carry the liquid composition from the plurality of liquid reservoirs 830. The core material 860 may be connected to the plurality of liquid reservoirs 830 to be in fluid communication with the plurality of liquid reservoirs 830. At least one heater 850 may be thermally coupled to the core material 860. The liquid composition included in the core material 860 may be evaporated by the heater 850 and may escape to the outside of the aerosol generating device 800 through the mouth end along the channel defined between the plurality of liquid reservoirs 830. At the same time, although Figure 20 An aerosol generating device 800 is shown including a control 810 configured to control a heater 850 and / or a light source 855 and a battery 840 configured to supply power to the control 810 , although other components may be included or omitted.

[0257] The aerosol generating device 800 may comprise a single heater 850. The heater 850 may at least partially surround a chamber in which the aerosol generating article is to be placed. The heater 850 may have a structure in which, for example, the substrate 551, 651, 751 is at least partially curved.

[0258] The aerosol generating device 800 may include a plurality of heaters 850. The plurality of heaters 850 may be positioned in different sections based on the chamber in which the aerosol generating article is to be placed. The metal materials of the metal prisms included in the plurality of heaters 850 may be the same or different.

[0259] The light source 855 can be configured to transmit an optical signal toward the heater 850 at a predetermined angle. For example, the light source 855 can transmit an optical signal at an angle that causes total internal reflection on a surface of the heater 850 (e.g., the surface of the substrate 551, 651, 751 and / or the surfaces 654B, 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 of the metal prism 554, 654, 754). In one embodiment, the light source 855 can transmit an optical signal toward the heater 850 at any angle.

[0260] Light source 855 can be configured to transmit light in the ultraviolet, visible, and / or infrared bands. In some embodiments, light source 855 can be configured to transmit light in the visible band (eg, approximately 380 nm to approximately 780 nm).

[0261] Light source 855 can be configured to transmit light in a wavelength band corresponding to the material of the metal particles of the metal prisms (e.g., metal prisms 554, 654, 754) included in heater 850. For example, light source 855 can transmit light in a wavelength band corresponding to the average maximum absorbance of the metal particles. In embodiments where the metal prisms are formed of gold, light source 855 can transmit light having a wavelength of approximately 630 nm or approximately 800 nm.

[0262] Light source 855 can deliver light of any suitable output. For example, light source 855 can deliver light with an output of approximately 1,000 mW.

[0263] The light source 855 may include a light emitting diode and / or a laser. The light emitting diode and / or the laser may be of a type and / or size suitable for inclusion in the aerosol generating device 800. For example, the laser may include a solid-state laser and / or a semiconductor laser.

[0264] The aerosol generating device 800 may include a plurality of light sources 855. The plurality of light sources 855 may be implemented as light sources of the same type. At least a portion of the plurality of light sources 855 may be implemented as light sources of different types.

[0265] At least one light source 855 of the plurality of light sources 855 may be configured to illuminate a portion of the heater 850 .

[0266] Any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may illuminate a different portion of the heater 850 than another light source 855. For example, the plurality of light sources 855 may illuminate different portions of a single heater 850 or illuminate multiple heaters 850 separately.

[0267] The plurality of light sources 855 may be configured to illuminate substantially simultaneously. The illumination timing of any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the illumination timing of another light source 855.

[0268] The plurality of light sources 855 may irradiate the heater 850 substantially simultaneously. The irradiation time of any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the irradiation time of another light source 855.

[0269] The plurality of light sources 855 may emit light of substantially the same wavelength band. The light band emitted by any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the light band emitted by another light source 855.

[0270] The plurality of light sources 855 may illuminate the heater 850 at substantially the same illumination. The illumination of any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the illumination of another light source 855.

[0271] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a heater in an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of the heater taken along line 22-22. Figure 23 yes Figure 22 An enlarged view of part A of FIG.

[0272] Reference Figures 21 to 23 , the aerosol generating device 900 may include a cartridge 905. The cartridge 905 may include at least one liquid reservoir (see Figure 20 ), which is configured to contain a liquid composition. During the manufacture of the aerosol-generating device 900, the cartridge 905 may be embedded in the aerosol-generating device 900. During the manufacture of the aerosol-generating device 900, the cartridge 905 may not be included in the aerosol-generating device 900. The cartridge 905 may be disposed in and removed from the aerosol-generating device 900. The cartridge 905 may include a hole 911. The hole 911 may be disposed on one surface of the cartridge 905 (e.g., the outer bottom surface along the -Z direction).

[0273] The aerosol-generating device 900 may include a heater 950. The heater 950 may be configured to generate heat. The generated heat may be transferred to the aerosol-generating material. The transferred heat may heat the aerosol-generating material to a target temperature (e.g., approximately 350° C.). The aerosol-generating material in aerosol form may be carried by a carrier (e.g., air) (entering through at least one vent provided in the aerosol-generating device 900) and then delivered to the user through the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating device 900.

[0274] The heater 950 may include a substrate 951. The substrate 951 may include a first surface 951A and a second surface 951B opposite to the first surface 951A.

[0275] The first surface 951A of the substrate 951 may include a curved surface. The first surface 951A may define a cavity CV. For example, the first surface 951A may define a substantially hemispherical cavity CV. The first surface 951A may be substantially continuous across its entire area. Partial areas of the first surface 951A may be discontinuous from another area. The first surface 951A may have a substantially constant radius of curvature R across its entire area. The radius of curvature R of a partial area of ​​the first surface 951A may be different from the radius of curvature R of another area.

[0276] The second surface 951B of the substrate 951 may include a curved surface. The second surface 951B may be substantially parallel to the first surface 951A. Some areas of the second surface 951B may not be parallel to the areas of the first surface 951A that they face. In an embodiment not shown, at least some areas of the second surface 951B may be substantially flat.

[0277] The substrate 951 can be implemented as a three-dimensional solid that can be expressed using azimuth angles and altitude angles. For example, the substrate 951 can include a dome-shaped solid. Any first area A1 of the substrate 951 can face any second area A2 that is at least partially different from (e.g., at least partially non-overlapping with) the first area A1. For example, the substrate 951 can be implemented as a three-dimensional solid having an azimuth angle of substantially 360 degrees and an altitude angle within a range of approximately -60 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0278] The heater 950 may include an opening 952. The opening 952 may be configured to allow light to enter the chamber CV. The opening 952 may be defined by at least one edge of the first face 951A of the substrate 951. The opening 952 may be substantially aligned with the hole 911.

[0279] The heater 950 may include an SPR structure 953 configured to generate heat through SPR. The SPR structure 953 may include a reference Figures 12 to 15 The plurality of prisms 554 described. The SPR structure 953 may include reference Figure 16 The metal prism 654 described. The SPR structure 953 may include reference Figures 17 to 19 The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 are described. The SPR structure 953 may include a thin film of a metal material (e.g., gold (Au)) having a specific thickness (e.g., a thickness of approximately 10 nm or less). The SPR structure 953 may be disposed on the first surface 951A of the substrate 951. The SPR structure 953 may be disposed on substantially the entire area of ​​the first surface 951A. The SPR structure 953 may be disposed in a localized area of ​​the first surface 951A.

[0280] The heater 950 may include an absorption layer 954. The absorption layer 954 may be configured to absorb light that passes through the substrate 951 from the first side 951A toward the second side 951B of the substrate 951. The absorption layer 954 may be configured to absorb light reflected within the heater 950. The absorption layer 954 may improve the light utilization efficiency of the heater 950.

[0281] The absorbent layer 954 can be disposed on or over the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 can be disposed on substantially the entire area of ​​the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 can be disposed on a localized area of ​​the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 can be attached to the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 can be spaced apart from the aerosol-generating material contained in the reservoir of the cigarette cartridge 905. This ensures the safety of the aerosol inhaled by the user.

[0282] The absorption layer 954 may include a material having a relatively high saturation color (eg, black). For example, the absorption layer 954 may have a heat resistance of approximately 800 degrees Celsius.

[0283] The heater 950 may include a reflective layer 955. The reflective layer 955 may be configured to reflect light passing through the substrate 951 from the first side 951A toward the second side 951B of the substrate 951 toward the substrate 951 or the absorption layer 954. The reflective layer 955 may be disposed above the absorption layer 954 with a gap G therebetween. The reflective layer 955 may be disposed substantially over the entire area of ​​the absorption layer 954. The reflective layer 955 may also be disposed on a localized area of ​​the absorption layer 954.

[0284] In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 955 may be disposed on the absorption layer 954 without the gap G. In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 955 may be disposed on the second surface 951B of the substrate 951 , and the absorption layer 954 may be disposed on the reflective layer 955 .

[0285] The reflective layer 955 may include any material suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 955 may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, or any other suitable reflective metal material, or a combination thereof.

[0286] The reflective layer 955 may have any thickness suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 955 may have a thickness of approximately 10 nm or less.

[0287] The heater 950 may include a heat transfer body 956. The heat transfer body 956 may be configured to transfer heat generated by the SPR structure 953 to the aerosol-generating material. The heat transfer body 956 may include an enclosed portion 956A that substantially encloses the substrate 951, the SPR structure 953, the absorbent layer 954, and the reflective layer 955, and an unenclosed portion 956B that does not enclose these portions. The enclosed portion 956A may include a shape corresponding to the shape of the chamber CV (e.g., a dome shape). The unenclosed portion 956B may extend or expand from the enclosed portion 956A along a side (e.g., the inner bottom surface) of the cigarette cartridge 905.

[0288] The heat transfer body 956 can transfer heat by conduction. In an embodiment not shown, a gap can be formed on either side of the heat transfer body 956, and heat can be transferred by convection or radiation.

[0289] The heat transfer body 956 may include a metal material. For example, the heat transfer body 956 may include aluminum or copper.

[0290] The heat transfer body 956 may have different materials. For example, in the region of the substrate 951, the closed portion 956A corresponding to the region to which light is irradiated (e.g., the curved region) may have a first material, while the non-closed portion 956B not corresponding to the above region may have a second material.

[0291] The enclosed portion 956A and the non-enclosed portion 956B may have different thermal properties. The thermal conductivity (e.g., 401 W / mK) of the first material (e.g., copper) forming the enclosed portion 956A may be greater than the thermal conductivity (e.g., 237 W / mK) of the second material (e.g., aluminum) forming the non-enclosed portion 956B. The heat capacity of the enclosed portion 956A may be smaller than the heat capacity of the non-enclosed portion 956B.

[0292] The aerosol generating device 900 may include a core material 960. The core material 960 may be configured to carry the aerosol generating material included in the liquid reservoir of the cigarette cartridge 905 to the heater 950. The core material 960 may be connected to at least one portion storing the aerosol generating material. The core material 960 may include an extension region 960A extending along one side (e.g., the inner bottom surface) of the cigarette cartridge 905, and a cover region 960B covering a portion or substantially the entire area of ​​the outer side of the heater 950. The extension region 960A may be provided on the non-enclosed portion 956B. The cover region 960B may be provided on the enclosed region 956A. The extension region 960A and the cover region 960B may be connected for fluid communication. The contact area between the heater 950 and the cover region 960B may be increased. The contact area between the core material 960 and the carrier (e.g., air) may be increased.

[0293] The aerosol generating device 900 may include an optical fiber 970. The optical fiber 970 may be configured to transmit a light source (e.g., Figure 20Light generated by the light source 855 is transmitted to the heater 950. The optical fiber 970 can be directly connected to the light source. At least one optical element (e.g., a lens, a mirror, and / or a collimator) can be disposed between the light source and the optical fiber 970. The optical fiber 970 can be connected to the hole 911. The optical fiber 970 can extend to the opening 952. The optical fiber 970 can be tightly coupled to the hole 911 and / or the opening 952. This can increase the efficiency of light passing through the optical fiber 970 to reach the chamber CV to approximately 99%. Since the amount of light used by the heater 950 can be controlled at a predictable level, heat loss from the heater 950 can be reduced, and thermal stability of the heater 950 can be ensured.

[0294] Figure 24 FIG2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. Figure 25 FIG2 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heater of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0295] Reference Figure 24 and Figure 25 The aerosol generating device 100 may include a housing 1010, which may be referred to as a "body." The housing 1010 may include a mouth end 1011 and a device end (not shown) opposite the mouth end 1011. The housing 1010 may include a mouthpiece 1012. The mouthpiece 1012 may be disposed at or adjacent to the mouth end 1011. The housing 1010 may include an airflow path leading to the mouthpiece 1012.

[0296] The aerosol-generating device 1000 may include a chamber 1020. The chamber 1020 may be configured to be coupled to and / or separate from the housing 1010. The chamber 1020 may include a first reservoir 1021. The first reservoir 1021 may include a first aerosol-generating material M1. The first aerosol-generating material M1 may include a first liquid composition. The chamber 1020 may include a second reservoir 1022. The second reservoir 1022 may contain a second aerosol-generating material M2. The second aerosol-generating material M2 may include a second liquid composition. The first liquid composition and the second liquid composition may include at least partially the same components. Alternatively, the first liquid composition and the second liquid composition may include different components.

[0297] The first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022 may be arranged along a circumferential direction (eg, along a circumferential direction relative to the Z-axis) of the housing 1010. The first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0298] In an embodiment not shown, the chamber 1020 may include a single reservoir 1021 or 1022. In an embodiment not shown, the chamber 1020 may include three or more reservoirs.

[0299] The aerosol generating device 1000 may include a heater 1030. The heater 1030 may be configured to generate heat through SPR. "SPR" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface between metal particles and a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of the electrons of the metal particles may be induced by light propagating from outside the heater 1030. The excitation of the electrons of the metal particles may generate thermal energy, and the generated thermal energy may be transferred to the environment in which the heater 1030 is used.

[0300] The heater 1030 may include a substrate 1031. The substrate 1031 may include a first end 1031A disposed toward the mouth end 1011 or the suction nozzle 1012. The first end 1031A may be or include a substantially closed surface. The first end 1031A may substantially prevent light from passing through the first end 1031A. The substrate 1031 may include a second end 1031B disposed toward the device end (not shown). The second end 1031B may be located opposite the first end 1031A. The second end 1031B may be at least partially open. For example, the second end 1031B may include an opening 1031B1. The substrate 1031 may include a side portion 1031C extending between the first end 1031A and the second end 1031B. The first end 1031A, the second end 1031B, and the side portion 1031C may substantially define the cylindrical shape of the substrate 1031. The substrate 1031 may include an exterior surface F1. At least a portion of the exterior surface F1 (e.g., an exterior side surface) may at least partially face at least one of the first liquid reservoir 1021 and the second liquid reservoir 1022. The substrate 1031 may include an interior surface F2. The interior surface F2 may be located opposite the exterior surface F1. The interior surface F2 may include the interior end surface (e.g., the surface facing the −Z direction) of the first end portion 1031A and the interior side surface of the side portion 1031C. The interior surface F2 may define a hollow portion 1031D. The hollow portion 1031D may have a substantially cylindrical space.

[0301] The substrate 1031 may have a relatively small volume. For example, the diameter or width of the side portion 1031C may be about 1 mm, and the distance between the first end 1031A and the second end 1031B (eg, the length of the substrate 1031 ) may be about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0302] Substrate 1031 can be formed from a variety of materials. For example, substrate 1031 can be formed from glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other suitable thermally conductive material. Substrate 1031 can be formed from any one of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), and sapphire, or a combination thereof. Substrate 1031 can include a material with a relatively low heat transfer coefficient. This allows heat to be transferred to only a portion of the substrate 1031.

[0303] In one embodiment, the substrate 1031 may be electrically conductive or electrically insulating.

[0304] The substrate 1031 may be formed of any material having a thermal conductivity suitable for use in the environment in which the heater 1030 is provided. For example, at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25° C., the substrate 1031 may have a thermal conductivity of approximately 0.6 W / mK or less, approximately 1 W / mK to approximately 2 W / mK, approximately 2 W / mK to approximately 5 W / mK, approximately 5 W / mK to approximately 10 W / mK, approximately 10 W / mK to approximately 100 W / mK, or approximately 100 W / mK to approximately 200 W / mK. At a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25° C., the substrate 1031 may have a thermal conductivity of approximately 0.6 W / mK or less, approximately 1.3 W / mK or less, approximately 148 W / mK, or approximately 46.06 W / mK.

[0305] Heater 1030 may include a metal layer 1032 located on inner surface F2. Metal layer 1032 may include a plurality of metal particles. Electrons within the metal particles collectively vibrate when exposed to light. This excitation of electrons can generate heat energy.

[0306] The plurality of metal particles may be nanoscale. For example, the average maximum diameter of the plurality of metal particles may be approximately 1 μm or less. The average maximum diameter of the plurality of metal particles may be approximately 700 nm or less, approximately 600 nm or less, approximately 500 nm or less, approximately 400 nm or less, approximately 300 nm or less, approximately 200 nm or less, approximately 150 nm or less, or approximately 100 nm or less.

[0307] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of any material suitable for generating heat. For example, the plurality of metal particles may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum, aluminum, titanium, nickel, chromium, iron, cobalt, manganese, rhodium, and ruthenium, or a combination thereof.

[0308] The plurality of metal particles can be formed of any material suitable for generating heat by interacting with light in a specific wavelength band (e.g., the visible light wavelength band, i.e., approximately 380 nm to approximately 780 nm). For example, the plurality of metal particles can include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, and platinum, or a combination thereof.

[0309] The plurality of metal particles may be formed from a metal material having an average maximum absorbance. Here, the average maximum absorbance may be defined as the absorbance of a peak value that varies according to the wavelength band of light. The specific wavelength band corresponding to the aforementioned absorbance may be understood as the wavelength band in which the plurality of metal particles resonate. For example, the plurality of metal particles may be formed from a metal material having an average maximum absorbance wavelength band between approximately 430 nm and approximately 450 nm, between approximately 480 nm and approximately 500 nm, between approximately 490 nm and approximately 510 nm, between approximately 500 nm and approximately 520 nm, between approximately 550 nm and approximately 570 nm, between approximately 600 nm and approximately 620 nm, between approximately 620 nm and approximately 640 nm, between approximately 630 nm and approximately 650 nm, between approximately 640 nm and approximately 660 nm, between approximately 680 nm and approximately 700 nm, or between approximately 700 nm and approximately 750 nm. The average maximum absorbance of the plurality of metal particles may vary depending on the type of metal, the type of substrate 1031 , the size of the metal layer 1032 , and / or the shape of the metal layer 1032 .

[0310] The thickness of the metal layer 1032 may be less than about 10 nm. When the thickness of the metal layer 1032 exceeds 10 nm, the exothermic reaction of the plurality of metal particles forming the metal prisms 1032 may be reduced, and thus the thermal efficiency of the heater 1030 may be reduced.

[0311] The heater 1030 may include an absorption layer 1033 configured to absorb light. The absorption layer 1033 may be configured to absorb light that passes through the substrate 1031 from the inner surface F2 toward the outer surface F1 of the substrate 1031. The absorption layer 1033 may improve the light utilization efficiency of the heater 1030. The absorption layer 1033 may be disposed on or over the outer surface F1. The absorption layer 1033 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the outer surface F1. The absorption layer 1033 may be disposed in a localized area (e.g., an outer side surface) of the outer surface F1. The absorption layer 1033 may be attached to the outer surface F1. The absorption layer 1033 may be spaced apart from the first and second liquid reservoirs 1021 and 1022. This ensures the safety of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The absorption layer 1033 may include a material with a relatively high saturation color (e.g., black), such as a material forming a black matrix such as carbon black. The absorption layer 1033 may have a heat resistance of approximately 800 degrees Celsius.

[0312] The heater 1030 may include a reflective layer 1034. The reflective layer 1034 may be configured to reflect light passing through the substrate 1031 from the inner surface F2 toward the outer surface F1 of the substrate 1031 back to the inner surface F2. The reflective layer 1034 may be disposed on the absorber layer 1033. In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 1034 may be disposed over the absorber layer 1033 with a gap G therebetween. The reflective layer 1034 may be disposed substantially over the entire area of ​​the absorber layer 1033. The reflective layer 1034 may be disposed in a localized area of ​​the absorber layer 1033. The reflective layer 1034 may comprise any material suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 1034 may comprise at least one of gold, silver, copper, or any other suitable reflective metallic material, or a combination thereof. The reflective layer 1034 may have any thickness suitable for reflecting light. For example, the thickness of the reflective layer 1034 may be approximately 10 nm or less.

[0313] The heater 1030 may include a heat transfer plate 1035. The heat transfer plate 1035 may be configured to transfer heat generated by the SPR to the core material 1040. The heat transfer plate 1035 may transfer heat by conduction. In an embodiment not shown, a gap may be formed between the heat transfer plate 1035 and the core material 1040, and the heat transfer plate 1035 may transfer heat to the core material 1040 by convection or radiation. The heat transfer plate 1035 may include a metal material. For example, the heat transfer plate 1035 may include aluminum or copper.

[0314] The heater 1030 may be configured to be separate from the chamber 1020. The heater 1030 may not be included in the cartridge (e.g., Figures 1 to 11 This can reduce the manufacturing cost of the cartridge and enable the heater 1030 to be used semi-permanently.

[0315] The aerosol-generating device 1000 may include a core 1040. The core 1040 may be configured to transport aerosol-generating material from the chamber 1020 to the heater 1030. The heat generated by the heater 1030 may cause the aerosol-generating material contained in the core 1040 to undergo a phase change. The core 1040 may include a first core end 1041 connected to at least one of the first liquid reservoir 1021 and the second liquid reservoir 1022. The core 1040 may include a second core end 1042 opposite the first core end 1041. The second core end 1042 may be substantially coplanar with the second surface 1042 of the substrate 1031. In an embodiment not shown, the second core end 1042 may be located anywhere on the exterior surface F1. The core 1040 may include a core extension 1043 extending along the exterior surface F1 (e.g., an exterior side surface) between the first core end 1041 and the second core end 1042. The core material extension 1043 may be at least partially in contact with the outer face F1 .

[0316] The aerosol generating device 1000 may include an optical fiber 1050. The optical fiber 1050 may be configured to transmit light generated by a light source (not shown) to the heater 1030. The optical fiber 1050 may be coupled to the opening 1031B1. Light passing through the opening 1031B1 via the optical fiber 1050 may enter the hollow portion 1031D and travel toward the inner surface of the substrate 1031.

[0317] Optical fiber 1050 can be tightly coupled to opening 1031B1. This can increase the efficiency of light passing through optical fiber 1050 to reach hollow portion 1031D to approximately 99%. This allows the amount of light used by heater 1030 to be controlled to a predictable level, thereby reducing heat loss from heater 1030 and ensuring thermal stability of heater 1030.

[0318] The aerosol-generating device 1000 may include an internal light source (not shown) configured to emit light. For example, the internal light source may include a laser light source. The internal light source may emit light in the ultraviolet band, the visible light band, and / or the infrared band. The aerosol-generating device 1000 may also utilize an external light source located outside the aerosol-generating device 1000, rather than an internal light source.

[0319] Figure 26 FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an apparatus for manufacturing an SPR heater of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0320] Reference Figure 26 , the manufacturing apparatus 1100 can manufacture an aerosol generating device (e.g., Figure 24 and Figure 25 An SPR heater (eg, heater 1030 ) of the aerosol generating device 1000 ).

[0321] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 may include a support 1104. The support 1104 may be configured to support the substrate 1102 (e.g., Figure 24 and Figure 25 The support member 1104 may include a substantially circular or elliptical disk, but is not limited thereto and may include disks of various shapes (eg, polygonal).

[0322] The support member 1104 can be configured to rotate about a rotation axis defined by the support member 1104. The substrate 1102 disposed on one side of the support member 1104 can rotate about the rotation axis. The rotation of the support member 1104 can allow the substrate 1102 to be uniformly deposited.

[0323] The support 1104 may be configured to heat the substrate 1102. The substrate 1102 disposed on one side of the support 1104 may be preheated to about 800°C to 1,100°C to deposit one or more deposition materials in a predetermined temperature environment.

[0324] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 may include a target 1106. The target 1106 may contain at least one type of deposition material (DM) (e.g., metal particles such as gold (Au) or silver (Ag), carbon black, etc.). The target 1106 may deposit at least one DM that has been transformed into a gas phase onto one side of the substrate 1102 (e.g., Figure 24 and Figure 25 The target 1106 may be oriented toward the support 1104 to be uniformly deposited on the substrate 1106.

[0325] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 may include an evaporator 1108. The evaporator 1108 may convert the DM into a gas phase and deposit the DM onto the substrate 1102 on the support 1104. For example, the evaporator 1108 may include a high-voltage power supply 1110 and a cathode 1112 electrically connected to the high-voltage power supply 1110. The cathode 1112 may accelerate electrons to form an electron beam E. The electron beam E generated by the cathode 1112 may be transmitted to the target 1106 under a magnetic field B of a predetermined strength and direction and directed toward the DM on the target 1106. The DM may be converted into a gas phase by the thermal energy generated by the electron beam E.

[0326] Deposition using an electron beam E can be advantageous for the deposition of complex small structures (e.g. Figure 24 and Figure 251031). Typical vapor deposition methods can form uneven deposition layers in the deposition of complex structures. Therefore, when depositing a hollow cylindrical structure with both ends open, deposition can be performed on the substrate 1102 in the direction of one end, the direction of the substrate 1102 can be changed so that the opposite end faces the target 1106, and then deposition can be performed on the substrate 1102 in the direction of the opposite end. In addition, typical vapor deposition methods are difficult to apply to the deposition of small structures, so a method of immersing the deposited material should be used. At the same time, for example, in Figure 24 and Figure 25 In the structure of the substrate 1031, deposition using an electron beam E according to an embodiment can achieve uniform deposition on the entire inner surface of the first end portion 1031A and the entire inner side surface of the side portion 1031C without changing the direction of the substrate 1102 or requiring an immersion DM process.

[0327] The evaporator 1108 can be configured to evaporate various types of DM. For example, the evaporator 1108 can evaporate a first DM (eg, carbon black) on the target 1106 and first deposit the first DM on the substrate 1102 to form a first layer (eg, Figure 24 and Figure 25 Then, a second DM (eg, metal particles) is evaporated on the target 1106 and deposited on the first layer to form a second layer (eg, Figure 24 and Figure 25 metal layer 1032).

[0328] The fabrication apparatus 1100 may include a magnetic field generator 1114. The magnetic field generator 1114 may be configured to generate a magnetic field B of any strength and direction suitable for the electron beam E to travel from the cathode 1112 toward the target 1106 and DM.

[0329] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 may include a chamber 1116 configured to accommodate the support 1104, the target 1106, and at least a portion of the evaporator 1108. The chamber 1116 may have a vacuum environment. For example, the chamber 1116 may have a vacuum environment of approximately 10 -2 to about 10 -4 Pa's pressure atmosphere.

[0330] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 may include a vacuum pump 1118. The vacuum pump 1118 may be configured to exhaust gas from the chamber 1116 so that the chamber 1116 can maintain a determined vacuum environment.

[0331] Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the above disclosure are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be used in conjunction or combined with each other in various configurations or functions.

[0332] For example, configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing and configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing may be combined with each other. That is, although a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible unless a description indicates that the combination is impossible.

[0333] The above detailed description should not be interpreted as restrictive in all aspects, but should be regarded as illustrative. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes within the equivalent range of the present disclosure are included in the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that include: a heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating article, The heater comprises: a substrate comprising a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the first surface comprises a curved surface and defines a cavity; a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure configured to generate heat by SPR and disposed on the first surface; and An opening is configured to allow light to enter the cavity and is defined by the first face.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The first area of ​​the first face faces a second area that is at least partially different from the first area of ​​the first face.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The first surface has a substantially constant curvature.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The heater further includes an absorption layer disposed on the second side and configured to absorb light that passes through the substrate.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater further includes a reflective layer disposed on the second surface and configured to reflect light that passes through the substrate.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heater further includes a heat transfer body disposed on the second surface and configured to transfer the generated heat.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein: The heat transfer body comprises: a first material having a first thermal property; and A second material having a second thermal property different from the first thermal property.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The SPR structure comprises: void areas; and A plurality of prism regions define the gap region and are arranged along a circumferential direction of the gap region.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The SPR structure comprises: void areas; and A metal prism defines the void region and extends along the entire circumference of the void region.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The SPR structure includes a plurality of metal particles of random sizes.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: An optical fiber is connected to the opening.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A core material is configured to carry the aerosol-generating material and is thermally coupled to the SPR structure.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A cigarette cartridge includes the aerosol generating material and comprises a hole facing the opening.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A light source is configured to generate light.

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