Aerosol-generating device comprising oxidation catalyst

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device according to an embodiment includes: a vaporizer including a storage tank accommodating a liquid composition containing nicotine and an acid, and a heater assembly heating the liquid composition to generate an aerosol; and a gas flow channel for discharging the aerosol generated from the vaporizer to the outside of the aerosol generating device, at least one of the inside of the gas flow channel and the inside of the storage tank including an oxidation catalyst.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device including an oxidation catalyst, and more particularly, to an aerosol generating device including an oxidation catalyst for forming nicotine salt in at least one of an interior of an airflow channel and an interior of a storage tank. Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternative methods to overcome the shortcomings of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is a growing demand for methods that generate aerosols by heating an aerosol-generating substance rather than burning the cigarette. Consequently, research into heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] Various studies have been conducted on heated aerosol-generating devices that heat aerosol-generating substances rather than burning cigarettes to further enhance users' smoking satisfaction. As this research progresses, attempts have been made to include nicotine and acids in the aerosol-generating substances, thereby forming nicotine salts through an acid-base reaction. However, these attempts have also encountered difficulties in satisfying users' smoking satisfaction. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical issues The embodiments may provide an aerosol generating device that can enhance a user's smoking satisfaction.

[0005] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned technical problems. Personnel with general knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments belong can clearly understand the unmentioned technical problems from this specification and the drawings.

[0006] Technical Solution According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes: a vaporizer including a storage tank and a heater assembly, wherein the storage tank contains a liquid composition containing nicotine and acid, and the heater assembly heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol; and an airflow channel that discharges the aerosol generated by the vaporizer to the outside of the aerosol generating device, wherein at least one of the interior of the airflow channel and the interior of the storage tank includes an oxidation catalyst.

[0007] Effects of the Invention According to the aerosol generating device of the embodiment, by including an oxidation catalyst for forming nicotine salt in at least one of the airflow channel and the storage tank of the aerosol generating device, the user's smoking satisfaction can be improved.

[0008] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand the effects not mentioned from this specification and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1a and Figure 1b is a diagram schematically showing an example of a cigarette being inserted into the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2b yes Figure 2a An exploded perspective view of the aerosol generating device shown.

[0012] Figure 3 is based on Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0013] Figures 4a to 4e is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow path according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5a and Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6a and Figure 6b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0016] Figures 7a to 7d is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8a and Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 is based on Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0019] Figures 10a to 10f 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a storage tank of a cigarette cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The terms used in the embodiments are selected from currently widely used general terms, taking into account their functions in the embodiments. However, these terms may change based on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, and so on. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant. In such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the embodiments should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the embodiments, rather than based on the names of the terms.

[0022] Throughout this specification, when a portion is referred to as "including" a certain component, unless otherwise stated, it implies that other components may also be included, not that other components are excluded. Furthermore, terms such as "unit" and "module" used in this specification represent a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented using hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0023] As used in this specification, when expressions such as "at least any one" precede an arrayed component, they modify the entire component rather than each individual arrayed component. For example, the expression "at least any one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that a person skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. However, the present invention can be implemented in various forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0025] Throughout the specification, embodiments are used as arbitrary divisions in this disclosure for ease of explanation of the invention, and the embodiments are not necessarily mutually exclusive. For example, a configuration disclosed in one embodiment may be applied to and / or implemented in another embodiment, and may be modified and applied and / or implemented without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0026] In addition, the terms used in the present disclosure are only used to illustrate the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present embodiments.In the present disclosure, unless otherwise specifically stated, a singular form also includes a plural form.

[0027] The dimensions and proportions of some components in the drawings may be slightly exaggerated. Furthermore, components shown in one drawing may not be shown in other drawings.

[0028] Throughout the specification, "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article for smoking.

[0029] Throughout this specification, the term "longitudinal direction" of a component may refer to the direction in which the component extends along one directional axis of the component. In this case, the one directional axis of the component may refer to the direction in which the component extends longer than another directional axis that transverses the one directional axis. The term "longitudinal direction of an aerosol-generating article" refers to the direction in which the length of the aerosol-generating article extends or the direction in which the aerosol-generating article burns during combustion.

[0030] The “longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device” refers to the direction in which the length of the aerosol generating device extends. For example, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device may refer to Figure 2a The z-axis direction.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1a and Figure 1b 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cigarette being inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0033] Reference Figure 1a and Figure 1b The aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 10 , a control unit 20 , a heater 30 and a vaporizer 40 .

[0034] exist Figure 1a and Figure 1b The aerosol generating device 1 shown in FIG1 shows the components related to this embodiment. Therefore, as long as a person with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include other components in addition to the components of FIG1 . Figure 1a and Figure 1b Other common components other than the components shown in the figure.

[0035] also, Figure 1a and Figure 1b 3 , the aerosol generating device 1 includes a heater 30 . However, the heater 30 may be omitted as needed.

[0036] Figure 1a , the battery 10, the control unit 20, the vaporizer 40, and the heater 30 are arranged in a row. Figure 1b The vaporizer 40 and the heater 30 are shown to be arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 1 is not limited to Figure 1a and Figure 1b In other words, the arrangement of the battery 10 , the control unit 20 , the heater 30 , and the vaporizer 40 may be changed according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0037] If the cigarette 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may operate the heater 30 and / or vaporizer 40 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 30 and / or vaporizer 40 is delivered to the user through the cigarette 2.

[0038] If necessary, the aerosol generating device 1 can also heat the heater 30 when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0039] The battery 10 supplies power for the aerosol generating device 1 to operate. For example, the battery 10 can supply power to heat the heater 30 or the vaporizer 40, and can also supply power required for the control unit 20 to operate. In addition, the battery 10 can supply power required for the display, sensors, motors, etc. provided in the aerosol generating device 1 to operate.

[0040] The control unit 20 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 20 controls not only the operation of the battery 10, the heater 30, and the vaporizer 40, but also the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the control unit 20 can also determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state by confirming the status of each component of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0041] The control unit 20 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, as anyone with ordinary knowledge in the technical field of this embodiment will appreciate, the processor may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0042] The heater 30 can be heated by the power supplied from the battery 10. For example, if a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, the heater 30 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 30 can increase the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0043] The heater 30 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 30 may include a conductive track, and the heater 30 may be heated by current flowing through the conductive track. However, the heater 30 is not limited to the above example and is applicable to any device capable of heating to a desired temperature. The desired temperature may be pre-set in the aerosol generating device 1 or set by the user.

[0044] In addition, as another example, the heater 30 may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 30 may include a conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating heater.

[0045] For example, the heater 30 may include a tube-type heating element, a plate-type heating element, a needle-type heating element, or a rod-type heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 according to the shape of the heating component.

[0046] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1 may also be provided with a plurality of heaters 30. In this case, the plurality of heaters 30 may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2 or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. In addition, a portion of the plurality of heaters 30 may be arranged to be inserted into the interior of the cigarette 2, and the remaining portion may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. In addition, the shape of the heater 30 is not limited to Figure 1a and Figure 1b The shape shown can be made into many shapes.

[0047] The vaporizer 40 may include a cartridge and a heater assembly. The vaporizer 40 may generate an aerosol by heating the liquid composition, which may be delivered to the user through the cigarette 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 may move along the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device 1. The airflow channel may be configured to enable the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 to pass through the cigarette 2 and be delivered to the user.

[0048] For example, the vaporizer 40 may include a liquid storage portion, a liquid delivery member, and a heating component, but is not limited thereto. For example, the liquid storage portion, the liquid delivery member, and the heating component may also be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0049] The liquid storage portion may be manufactured to be detachable from / attachable to the vaporizer 40 , or may be manufactured to be integral with the vaporizer 40 .

[0050] The liquid delivery member can deliver the liquid composition in the liquid storage portion to the heating component. The heating component is a component for heating the liquid composition delivered by the liquid delivery member.

[0051] The vaporizer 40 may be referred to as a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto. The details of the vaporizer 40 will be described later.

[0052] The aerosol generating device 1 may also include common components other than the battery 10, the control unit 20, the heater 30, and the vaporizer 40. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, a cigarette insertion sensor, etc.). Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 may be configured to allow external air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when a cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0053] Although Figure 1a and Figure 1b Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also form a system together with a separate bracket. For example, the bracket may be used to charge the battery 10 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 30 may be heated when the bracket is combined with the aerosol generating device 1.

[0054] The cigarette 2 can be similar to a conventional combustion-type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 can be divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating substance and a second portion including a filter, etc. Alternatively, the second portion of the cigarette 2 can also include an aerosol-generating substance. For example, the aerosol-generating substance in the form of particles or capsules can be inserted into the second portion.

[0055] The entire first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, while the second part is exposed to the outside. Alternatively, only a portion of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a portion of the second part may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. In this case, aerosol is generated as external air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0056] As one example, external air can flow in through at least one air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening and / or size of the air channel formed in the aerosol generating device 1 can be adjusted by the user. This allows the user to adjust the amount of atomization, the puffing sensation, and the like. As another example, external air can flow into the interior of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed in the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0057] Below, refer to Figure 2a and Figure 2b , the aerosol generating device 1 is described in detail.

[0058] Figure 2a is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0059] Reference Figure 2aAccording to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a cigarette cartridge 100 , a heater assembly 200 and a main body 300 .

[0060] The aerosol generating material may be stored in the cartridge 100, and the aerosol generating material stored in the cartridge 100 may be supplied to the heater assembly 200. Figure 2a The heater assembly 200 can be arranged at the lower end of the cigarette cartridge 100 (eg Figure 2a -z direction), but not limited thereto.

[0061] The heater assembly 200 is located between the cigarette cartridge 100 and the main body 300 and can convert the phase of the aerosol-generating substance into a gas phase to generate an aerosol. For example, the heater assembly 200 can heat the aerosol-generating substance supplied from the cigarette cartridge 100 to generate vapor from the aerosol-generating substance. The vapor generated from the aerosol-generating substance mixes with external air flowing into the heater assembly 200 to generate an aerosol.

[0062] In the embodiments, “aerosol” may refer to particles generated by mixing vapor generated by heating an aerosol-generating substance with air, and this expression may also be used with the same meaning in the following content.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the cigarette cartridge 100 may include a mouthpiece 100m for supplying aerosol to the user. For example, when the cigarette cartridge 100 is combined with the heater assembly 200, the mouthpiece 100m can connect the interior of the heater assembly 200 with the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1. Aerosol generated within the heater assembly 200 can be discharged through the mouthpiece 100m to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the user can place their mouth in contact with the mouthpiece 100m and inhale the aerosol discharged to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0064] In addition, although Figure 2a A case where the mouthpiece 100 m is included in the cartridge 100 is shown, but the mouthpiece 100 m may be included as a configuration independent of the cartridge 100 .

[0065] The main body 300 may be located at the lower end of the heater assembly 200 (eg Figure 2a The heater assembly 200 is supported by the main body 300 (in the -z direction), and components for operating the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed inside the main body 300. For example, a battery (not shown) for supplying power to the components of the aerosol generating device 1 and a processor (not shown) for controlling the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed inside the main body 300.

[0066] However, the battery and the processor are merely examples of components disposed inside the main body 300 , and other components (eg, a user interface, a sensor, etc.) may be disposed inside the main body 300 in addition to the above components.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a cover 310 for protecting components of the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0068] The cover 310 is arranged to surround at least one area of ​​the cigarette cartridge 100, the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300 to fix the positions of the cigarette cartridge 100, the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300, and protect the cigarette cartridge 100, the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300 from external impact or the influx of foreign matter.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the cover 310 may be integrally formed with the main body 300, but is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the cover 310 may be detachably combined with the main body 300.

[0070] In addition, despite Figure 2a Although not shown in the figure, the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment may have an accommodating space capable of accommodating cigarettes.

[0071] Below, we will refer to Figure 2b A detailed observation is made on the connection relationship between the cigarette cartridge 100, the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300.

[0072] Figure 2b yes Figure 2a An exploded perspective view of the aerosol generating device shown.

[0073] Reference Figure 2b According to an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a cigarette cartridge 100, a heater assembly 200, a main body 300 and a cover 310. The components of the aerosol generating device 1 may be the same as those of the Figure 2a At least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is identical or similar, and any duplicate descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, the components of the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited thereto. Depending on the embodiment, at least one of the components (e.g., the cover 310 ) may be omitted, or other components may be added.

[0074] The cartridge 100 may include a storage tank 110 for storing an aerosol generating substance and a mouthpiece 100 m for supplying the aerosol generated in the heater assembly 200 to a user.

[0075] The storage tank 110 can be connected or fluidically connected to the interior space of the heater assembly 200 when the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are coupled to each other. As a result, the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage tank 110 can flow into the interior space of the heater assembly 200 .

[0076] At this time, the aerosol generating substance stored in the storage tank 110 may include a tobacco-containing substance including volatile tobacco flavor components, or may include a liquid composition including a non-tobacco substance.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the liquid composition may include nicotine and acid. Nicotine may be naturally occurring nicotine or synthetic nicotine, and may have any suitable weight concentration relative to the total solution weight of the liquid composition.

[0078] Furthermore, if an appropriate acid, such as an organic acid or an inorganic acid, is added to nicotine, a nicotine salt can be generated through an acid-base reaction. When a nicotine salt is generated by including an acid in the liquid composition, smoking satisfaction can be enhanced.

[0079] The acid used to form the nicotine salt can be appropriately selected taking into account the absorption rate of nicotine in the blood, the operating temperature of the aerosol generating device 1, the aroma or flavor, the solubility, etc. For example, the acid used to form the nicotine salt can be a single acid selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, lauric acid, sorbic acid, levulinic acid, pyruvic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, citric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, phenylacetic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, fumaric acid, gluconic acid, saccharinic acid, malonic acid, or malic acid, or a mixture of two or more acids selected from the group consisting of the foregoing, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] In addition, the liquid composition may contain one or a mixture of water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, flavors, fragrances, and vitamin mixtures.

[0081] Flavoring agents may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruity aromas. Flavoring agents may include ingredients that can provide a variety of aromas or flavors to the user. Vitamin mixtures may be prepared by mixing at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but are not limited to these.

[0082] Additionally, liquid compositions may contain glycerin and an aerosol former such as propylene glycol.

[0083] For example, the liquid composition may comprise a solution of glycerol and propylene glycol in any weight ratio to which a nicotine salt is added. The liquid composition may also comprise two or more nicotine salts.

[0084] The heater assembly 200 can be detachably coupled to the lower end surface of the cigarette cartridge 100 (eg Figure 2b The surface facing the -z direction) can heat the liquid composition supplied from the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100 to generate an aerosol.

[0085] For example, a first coupling component (not shown) arranged in an area of ​​the heater assembly 200 facing the cigarette cartridge 100 can be coupled to or separated from a second coupling component (not shown) arranged on the lower end surface of the cigarette cartridge 100 so that the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 can be detachably coupled, but the coupling method is not limited thereto.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 200 may include: a liquid inlet 201 for allowing the liquid composition to flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200; an air inlet 202 for allowing external air to flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200; and an air exhaust port 203 for exhausting the aerosol and / or air generated inside the heater assembly 200 to the outside.

[0087] The liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the liquid inlet 201 , and a heater (not shown) disposed inside the heater assembly 200 may heat the liquid composition supplied from the storage tank 110 .

[0088] External air may flow into the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202 . Inside the heater assembly 200 , vapor generated as the liquid composition is heated is mixed with the inflowing external air, thereby generating aerosol.

[0089] The aerosol generated inside the heater assembly 200 can move from the heater assembly 200 toward the cartridge 100 through the air outlet 203 connecting the heater assembly 200 and the cartridge 100 , and then be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the mouthpiece 100 m.

[0090] For example, as the pressure inside the cartridge 100 decreases due to the user's inhalation action on the mouthpiece 100m, the air and / or aerosol inside the heater assembly 200 can move from the heater assembly 200 in the direction toward the mouthpiece 100m of the cartridge 100, so that the user can inhale the air and / or aerosol discharged through the mouthpiece 100m.

[0091] The main body 300 is detachably coupled to the lower surface of the heater assembly 200 (eg Figure 2b The heater assembly 200 is supported by the main body 300. For example, the main body 300 may be detachably coupled to the heater assembly 200 in a manner such that at least one region thereof is inserted into or separated from an insertion groove (not shown) formed on the lower end surface of the heater assembly 200. However, the coupling manner of the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300 is not limited thereto.

[0092] According to one embodiment, components for operating the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed inside the main body 300. For example, a battery (not shown) for supplying power and a processor (not shown) for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 may be disposed inside the main body 300.

[0093] The battery can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the battery can be electrically connected to the heater assembly 200 to supply power to heat the heater of the heater assembly 200. As another example, the battery can also supply power required for operating other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., a processor, etc.).

[0094] The processor may control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing programs executable by the microprocessor, but is not limited thereto.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor may control the power supplied from the battery to the heater of the heater assembly 200. For example, the processor may control the amount of power supplied from the battery to the heater and the time for supplying power so that the heater of the heater assembly 200 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at a specified temperature.

[0096] In the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment, the cartridge 100 and / or the heater assembly 200 can be replaced by detachably combining the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 and detachably combining the heater assembly 200 and the main body 300 .

[0097] In one example, when the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100 is depleted, the user can replace the existing cigarette cartridge 100 with a new one to continue smoking. In another example, if the performance of a component of the heater assembly 200 (e.g., the heater or wick) degrades and fails to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol, the user can replace the existing heater assembly 200 with a new one to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[0098] Figure 3 yes Figure 2a A cross-sectional view according to an example of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0099] Specifically, Figure 3 Can be Figure 2a The cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 of the aerosol generating device 1 are an embodiment of the present invention, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0100] In addition, if Figure 3 As shown, the cartridge 100 may include the airflow channel 400, but the cartridge 100 and the airflow channel 400 may be formed separately. For example, the airflow channel 400 may be formed with Figure 2a or Figure 2b The illustrated body 300 is integrally formed.

[0101] Reference Figure 3 The heater assembly 200 according to an embodiment may include a liquid inlet (not shown), an air inlet 202 , and an air outlet 203 .

[0102] The liquid inlet of the heater assembly 200 can be arranged to connect or communicate the interior of the cartridge 100 with the interior of the heater assembly 200 when the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined. Accordingly, the liquid composition supplied from the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 can flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the liquid inlet.

[0103] For example, the liquid inlet may be arranged in a region where the heater assembly 200 and the cartridge 100 are combined, and the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the liquid inlet.

[0104] In the embodiments, the expression “arranged to be connected or communicated” means that components are connected and arranged so that a fluid (eg, air) can pass through and flow, and this expression may also be used with the same meaning in the following description.

[0105] The air inlet 202 may be arranged to connect or communicate the inside and outside of the heater assembly 200 . Air outside the heater assembly 200 (hereinafter referred to as “outside air”) may flow into the inside of the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202 .

[0106] For example, the air inlet 202 may be disposed in a separate region of the heater assembly 200 from the liquid inlet (e.g., a side surface of the heater assembly 200). External air may flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202. The external air flowing into the interior of the heater assembly 200 may move or flow along the chamber 210 disposed within the heater assembly 200 and be heated by the heater 230. A detailed description of this will be provided later.

[0107] The air outlet 203 may be arranged to connect or communicate the inside and outside of the heater assembly 200 . Aerosol and / or air generated inside the heater assembly 200 may be discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 or to the airflow channel 400 through the air outlet 203 .

[0108] For example, the air outlet 203 may be spaced apart from the liquid inlet in a region where the heater assembly 200 is combined with the air flow channel 400 . Aerosol and / or air inside the heater assembly 200 may be exhausted to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air outlet 203 .

[0109] When the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined, the aerosol and / or air discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air outlet 203 moves to the inside of the air flow channel 400 and can be discharged to the outside of the air flow channel 400 through the mouthpiece 100m by the user's inhalation action.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the heater assembly 200 may further include an identification terminal (not shown) for identifying whether the cigarette cartridge 100 is coupled or not. The identification terminal may be electrically connected to the main body (eg Figure 2a or Figure 2b The main body 300 of the cigarette cartridge 100 is a processor and can be in contact with an area of ​​the cigarette cartridge 100 when the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined.

[0111] The identification terminal can generate a signal indicating contact with the cartridge 100 when in contact with the cartridge 100, and the generated signal can be transmitted to an electrically connected processor. The processor can detect whether the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined based on the signal transmitted from the identification terminal.

[0112] For example, when the processor transmits a signal from the identification terminal, it can determine that the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are in a combined state; when the signal transmission from the identification terminal is interrupted, it can determine that the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are in a separated state.

[0113] Reference Figure 3The heater assembly 200 may include a chamber 210, a core 220, and a heater 230. The chamber 210 may be formed in the inner space of the heater assembly 200. In the chamber 210, the liquid composition flowing from the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may be heated by the heater 230 to generate an aerosol.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the chamber 210 may be fluidically communicated or fluidly connected to the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 through the liquid inlet, and the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may flow into the interior of the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet.

[0115] The wick 220 is arranged in a region adjacent to the liquid inlet in the chamber 210, and can absorb the liquid composition flowing into the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet. For example, at least one region of the wick 220 is arranged to face the liquid inlet so as to be able to absorb the liquid composition flowing into the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet.

[0116] According to one embodiment, core 220 may include ceramic fibers or porous ceramics for absorbing the liquid composition. In other words, core 220 may be a ceramic core. However, core 220 is not limited to the above embodiment. Depending on the embodiment, core 220 may also be formed of other materials (e.g., cotton or glass).

[0117] The heater 230 may be disposed on a side surface of the core 220 (eg, a side facing the +y direction) to heat the liquid composition absorbed by the core 220. For example, the heater 230 may be disposed on a side surface of the core 220 (eg, a side facing the +y direction) to heat the liquid composition absorbed by the core 220. Figure 2a or Figure 2b The liquid composition absorbed by the core 220 is heated using power supplied by a battery in the main body 300 .

[0118] Heater 230 may be made of a metal material that generates heat through electrical resistance. For example, heater 230 may be made of stainless steel to prevent corrosion from the liquid composition absorbed by core 220, but the metal material of heater 230 is not limited thereto. In another example, heater 230 may also include a metal material such as copper, nickel, or tungsten.

[0119] According to one embodiment, the heater 230 may include a conductive pattern printed on one side of the core 220. For example, the heater 230 may be formed by printing a metal material (e.g., stainless steel) on the side of the core 220 facing the +y direction in a predetermined pattern shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0120] According to another embodiment, heater 230 may include a conductive pattern insert-molded onto one side of core 220. For example, heater 230 may be formed by insert-molding a metal material (e.g., stainless steel) into a predetermined pattern on the side of core 220. However, the method of forming heater 230 or the shape of heater 230 is not limited to the above embodiment. According to yet another embodiment (not shown), heater 230 may also include a conductive plate disposed on one side of core 220.

[0121] Since heater 230 is disposed on the side of wick 220, steam generated by heating the liquid composition can be generated in an area of ​​chamber 210 adjacent to the side of wick 220. Steam generated from the liquid composition can be mixed with external air flowing into chamber 210 through air inlet 202.

[0122] At this time, external air may flow into the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202 and then move into the chamber 210. The chamber 210 connects the air inlet 202 and the air outlet 203 to form a flow path for external air and / or aerosol to move.

[0123] According to one embodiment, a region of the passage connecting the air inlet 202 and the chamber 210 may be formed by extending along the edge of the heater assembly 200 inside the heater assembly 200 .

[0124] The vapor generated by the liquid composition being heated by the heater 230 may mix with the external air flowing into the chamber 210, resulting in the generation of aerosol in a region of the chamber 210 adjacent to the side surface of the wick 220. The generated aerosol and / or external air may be exhausted to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air exhaust port 203.

[0125] The aerosol and / or external air discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the airflow channel 400. The aerosol and / or external air can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 along the longitudinal direction (e.g., +z direction) of the airflow channel 400.

[0126] An oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged inside the air flow channel 400. Figure 3As shown, the oxidation catalyst 500 can be formed to extend from the inner wall of the airflow channel 400. Specifically, it can be formed from the inner wall toward the center of the airflow channel 400. The oxidation catalyst 500 can also be formed in a mesh pattern within the airflow channel 400. The shape and arrangement of the oxidation catalyst 500 are not limited to this. A detailed description of the airflow channel 400 and the oxidation catalyst 500 will be provided later with reference to Figures 4 to 7.

[0127] Figures 4a to 4e is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow path according to an embodiment.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the airflow channel 400 may include an oxidation catalyst 500 therein. The oxidation catalyst 500 may be disposed inside the airflow channel 400 and may form nicotine salt when the aerosol flows through the airflow channel 400.

[0129] Specifically, the nicotine contained in the aerosol flowing in the air flow channel 400 can form additional nicotine salt by contacting the oxidation catalyst 500. The oxidation catalyst 500 is stored in the cigarette cartridge ( Figure 3 100) storage slots ( Figure 3 In addition to the nicotine salt contained in the liquid composition in 110), nicotine salt is additionally formed to enhance the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0130] The oxidation catalyst 500 may be selected from metal oxidation catalysts, chlorine-based catalysts, and combinations thereof.

[0131] For example, the metal oxidation catalyst can be selected from one or more of the group consisting of platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), ruthenium (Ru), rhodium (Rh), silver (Ag), gold (Au), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), vanadium (V), nickel (Ni) and tungsten (W). For example, the chlorine-based catalyst can be selected from Cl2, HClO, OCl - and ClO2 - One or more of the group consisting of.

[0132] The oxidation catalyst 500 disposed inside the air flow channel 400 may be formed using the above-mentioned substances, and may be in a form in which the above-mentioned substances are coated on the surface of a structure such as plastic.

[0133] Furthermore, the airflow channel 400 may include a vortex-forming member 420 therein. When the aerosol flows along the airflow channel 400, the rapid movement of the airflow may hinder the reaction between the aerosol and the oxidation catalyst 500. Therefore, by using the vortex-forming member 420 to form a vortex around the oxidation catalyst 500, the reaction rate with the oxidation catalyst 500 can be increased. This can further enhance the smoking satisfaction.

[0134] The vortex forming member 420 may include, for example, one or more selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), and polypropylene (PP), but is not limited thereto.

[0135] As one embodiment, the vortex forming member 420 may extend from the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 in a direction transverse to the length of the airflow channel 400. Inside the airflow channel 400, aerosol and / or air flows along the length of the airflow channel 400 and is discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. Since the vortex forming member 420 is arranged in a direction transverse to such flow, a vortex can be formed.

[0136] The airflow channel 400 may include one or more vortex-forming components 420. The vortex-forming components 420 may be integrally formed as a single component. If the vortex-forming component 420 is formed as a single component, it may be in the form of a plate including holes through which aerosol and / or air can flow. Alternatively, the vortex-forming component 420 may be spaced apart from the oxidation catalyst 500 by a predetermined distance, thereby forming a vortex around the oxidation catalyst 500. If the airflow channel 400 includes multiple vortex-forming components 420, the multiple vortex-forming components 420 may be spaced apart from each other to form a vortex.

[0137] The airflow passage 400 and the vortex flow forming member 420 can be manufactured by a double shot injection molding method, etc. Therefore, the airflow passage 400 and the vortex flow forming member 420 can be manufactured integrally.

[0138] There are many ways to form vortex using vortex forming component 420. For example, vortex forming component 420 can have various shapes. Figures 4a to 4eIn the figure, the vortex forming member 420 is shown as a bar shape, but it can also be a shape with concave and convex surfaces. In addition, the vortex forming member 420 can be variously arranged inside the air flow channel 400. The vortex forming member 420 can also include a rotatable element for generating vortexes.

[0139] As an example, refer to Figure 4a As shown in the cross-sectional view, within the airflow channel 400, the vortex forming member 420 is spaced apart from the oxidation catalyst 500 by a predetermined distance, thereby forming a vortex around the oxidation catalyst 500. Specifically, the distance between the vortex forming member 420 and the oxidation catalyst 500 generates a vortex, thereby increasing contact between nicotine contained in the aerosol passing through the airflow channel 400 and the oxidation catalyst 500.

[0140] exist Figure 4a In the figure, the oxidation catalyst 500 and the vortex forming member 420 are shown as being respectively arranged in only one on one side of the inner wall of the air flow channel 400 , but the oxidation catalyst 500 and / or the vortex forming member 420 may be arranged in plurality.

[0141] As another example, refer to Figure 4b The air flow channel 400 may include a plurality of oxidation catalysts 500 and vortex forming components 420 , and the plurality of oxidation catalysts 500 and vortex forming components 420 may be separated. A vortex may be generated between each of the separated oxidation catalysts 500 and each of the vortex forming components 420 .

[0142] As another example, refer to Figure 4c The air flow channel 400 may include a plurality of oxidation catalysts 500 and vortex forming components 420 , wherein a portion of the oxidation catalysts 500 and the vortex forming components 420 may contact each other, and a vortex may be generated between the remaining separated oxidation catalysts 500 and the vortex forming components 420 .

[0143] Despite Figure 4b and Figure 4c FIG. 4 shows a case where the oxidation catalyst 500 and the vortex forming member 420 are arranged symmetrically. However, Figure 4d and Figure 4e As shown, the oxidation catalyst 500 and the swirl forming member 420 may be arranged asymmetrically.

[0144] Reference Figure 4d and Figure 4eThe flow path of the aerosol and / or air inside the airflow channel 400 may not be formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the airflow channel 400. In this case, relatively more vortices may be formed. However, the shape, number, and arrangement of the oxidation catalyst 500 and the vortex forming member 420 may be appropriately adjusted to ensure smooth discharge of the aerosol.

[0145] 5 to 8 relate to an air flow channel 400 according to another embodiment, and repeated descriptions of the air flow channel 400 and the oxidation catalyst 500 and / or the vortex forming member 420 disposed therein are omitted.

[0146] Figure 5a and Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0147] According to an embodiment, the length direction of the vortex forming member 420 may be arranged along the length direction of the air flow channel 400, one surface of the vortex forming member 420 faces the inner wall of the air flow channel 400, and the other surface of the vortex forming member 420 is arranged toward the center of the air flow channel 400. The vortex forming member 420 may be a member having a plurality of vortex forming portions.

[0148] Reference Figure 5a and Figure 5b For illustration, the length direction of the vortex forming member 420 may refer to the direction having the longest length in the vortex forming member 420. The direction having the longest length in the vortex forming member 420 may be parallel to the length direction of the air flow channel 400. In addition, one surface and another surface of the vortex forming member 420 may refer to one surface and another surface in a direction intersecting the length direction of the vortex forming member 420.

[0149] according to Figure 5a and Figure 5b One surface of the vortex forming member 420 may contact the inner wall of the airflow channel 400, and the other surface may have multiple vortex forming portions. One surface of the vortex forming member 420 may be bonded to the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 using an adhesive or the like, or may be integrally formed with the airflow channel 400 using a double injection method or the like.

[0150] However, although not shown, and not limited to the above-described embodiment, one surface of the vortex forming member 420 may face the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 and may not contact the inner wall. Therefore, the vortex forming member 420 may be cylindrical with an inner diameter smaller than that of the airflow channel 400, and the aerosol may flow through the interior of the vortex forming member 420 and between the vortex forming member 420 and the airflow channel 400.

[0151] according to Figure 5a and Figure 5b The vortex forming components 420 are shown to be symmetrically arranged on the inner wall of the air flow channel 400 and include two vortex forming components 420. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the vortex forming components 420 may be provided as one or more vortex forming components, or may be arranged asymmetrically.

[0152] Reference Figure 5a and Figure 5b In the cross section of the airflow channel 400 shown, the other surface of the vortex forming member 420 arranged toward the center of the airflow channel 400 may have a plurality of vortex forming portions protruding toward the center of the airflow channel 400. The shape of the vortex forming portion is not limited to the illustrated shape and may be varied.

[0153] The oxidation catalyst 500 may be disposed between the plurality of vortex-forming portions. Since vortices may be generated between the vortex-forming portions, the oxidation catalyst 500 disposed between the plurality of vortex-forming portions may increase contact between the nicotine in the aerosol and the oxidation catalyst 500.

[0154] exist Figure 5a and Figure 5b , although the case where the oxidation catalyst 500 is disposed between each vortex forming portion is shown, the amount or number of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be appropriately selected.

[0155] Figure 6a and Figure 6b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0156] The oxidation catalyst 500 may be included in a grid-like configuration within the airflow channel 400. Since the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged in a grid-like configuration within the airflow channel 400, contact between the nicotine in the aerosol flowing through the airflow channel 400 and the oxidation catalyst 500 is increased. Therefore, by increasing the formation of nicotine salts, the user's smoking satisfaction can be enhanced.

[0157] In the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500, the smaller the size of the holes through which aerosol and / or air pass, the greater the contact area between nicotine and the oxidation catalyst 500. However, the smaller the size of the holes, the less likely it is that aerosol and / or air can flow smoothly. Therefore, the size of the holes can be appropriately set taking this effect into consideration.

[0158] according to Figure 6a and Figure 6b , the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged in a direction transverse to the direction in which the airflow channel 400 extends.

[0159] according to Figure 6a , a grid-type oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged across the entire inner diameter of the airflow channel 400 in a direction transverse to the direction in which the airflow channel 400 extends. Figure 6b , a plurality of mesh-type oxidation catalysts 500 may be arranged, and the plurality of mesh-type oxidation catalysts 500 may be arranged spaced apart from each other. However, it is obvious that the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0160] Figures 7a to 7d is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the airflow channel 400 may include a mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 and a vortex forming member 420 therein. When the aerosol flows through the airflow channel 400, it may contact the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 disposed inside the airflow channel 400 and form nicotine salt.

[0162] As one embodiment, the vortex forming member 420 may extend from the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 in a direction transverse to the length of the airflow channel 400. Inside the airflow channel 400, aerosol and / or air flows along the length of the airflow channel 400 and is discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. Since the vortex forming member 420 is arranged in a direction transverse to such flow, a vortex can be formed.

[0163] The airflow channel 400 may include one or more vortex-forming components 420. The vortex-forming components 420 may be integrally formed. If the vortex-forming component 420 is formed as a single component, it may be in the form of a plate including holes through which aerosol and / or air can flow. If the airflow channel 400 includes multiple vortex-forming components 420, the multiple vortex-forming components 420 may be spaced apart from each other to form vortices.

[0164] As an example, refer to Figure 7a As shown in the cross-sectional view, the airflow channel 400 may include a plurality of vortex-forming components 420, which may be spaced apart from one another. Vortexes may be generated between the spaced vortex-forming components 420. The mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 may be spaced apart from the plurality of vortex-forming components 420. The vortexes generated between the plurality of vortex-forming components 420 may increase contact between the aerosol and the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500.

[0165] As another example, refer to Figure 7bThe airflow channel 400 may include a plurality of vortex-forming components 420, each of which may be separated from one another. Vortexes may be generated between the separated vortex-forming components 420. Some of the vortex-forming components 420 may contact the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500. The vortexes generated between the vortex-forming components 420 may increase contact between the aerosol and the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500.

[0166] Despite Figure 7a and Figure 7b FIG. 4 shows a case where the vortex forming components 420 are arranged symmetrically. However, Figure 7c and Figure 7d As shown, the vortex forming member 420 may be arranged asymmetrically. Figure 7a and Figure 7b The oxidation catalyst 500 is shown as being integrally formed and arranged over the entire inner diameter of the air flow passage 400 in a direction transverse to the direction in which the air flow passage 400 extends, but as shown in FIG. Figure 7c and Figure 7d As shown, more than one oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged, or the arrangement may be asymmetrical. In addition to the illustrated embodiment, the shape, number, and arrangement of the vortex forming member 420 and the grid-type oxidation catalyst 500 may also be variously modified.

[0167] As another example, refer to Figure 7c and Figure 7d The flow path of the aerosol and / or air inside the airflow channel 400 may not be formed parallel to the longitudinal direction of the airflow channel 400. In this case, relatively more vortices may be formed. However, the shape, number, and arrangement of the oxidation catalyst 500 and the vortex forming member 420 may be appropriately adjusted to ensure smooth discharge of the aerosol.

[0168] Figure 8a and Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view illustrating an air flow channel according to another embodiment.

[0169] According to an embodiment, the length direction of the vortex forming member 420 may be arranged along the length direction of the air flow channel 400, one surface of the vortex forming member 420 faces the inner wall of the air flow channel 400, and the other surface of the vortex forming member 420 is arranged toward the center of the air flow channel 400. The vortex forming member 420 may be a member having a plurality of vortex forming portions.

[0170] Reference Figure 8a and Figure 8bFor illustration, the length direction of the vortex forming member 420 may refer to the direction having the longest length in the vortex forming member 420. The direction having the longest length in the vortex forming member 420 may be parallel to the length direction of the air flow channel 400. In addition, one surface and another surface of the vortex forming member 420 may refer to one surface and another surface in a direction intersecting the length direction of the vortex forming member 420.

[0171] according to Figure 8a and Figure 8b One surface of the vortex forming member 420 may contact the inner wall of the airflow channel 400, and the other surface may have multiple vortex forming portions. One surface of the vortex forming member 420 may be bonded to the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 using an adhesive or the like, or may be integrally formed with the airflow channel 400 using a double injection method or the like.

[0172] However, although not shown, and not limited to the above-described embodiment, one surface of the vortex forming member 420 may face the inner wall of the airflow channel 400 and may not contact the inner wall. Therefore, the vortex forming member 420 may be cylindrical with an inner diameter smaller than that of the airflow channel 400, and the aerosol may flow through the interior of the vortex forming member 420 and between the vortex forming member 420 and the airflow channel 400.

[0173] according to Figure 8a and Figure 8b The vortex forming components 420 are shown to be symmetrically arranged on the inner wall of the air flow channel 400 and include two vortex forming components 420. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the vortex forming components 420 may be provided as one or more vortex forming components, or may be arranged asymmetrically.

[0174] Reference Figure 8a and Figure 8b In the cross section of the airflow channel 400 shown, the other surface of the vortex forming member 420 arranged toward the center of the airflow channel 400 may have a plurality of vortex forming portions protruding toward the center of the airflow channel 400. The shape of the vortex forming portion is not limited to the illustrated shape and may be varied.

[0175] The oxidation catalyst 500 can be arranged in a grid form between a plurality of vortex forming portions. Since vortices can be generated between the vortex forming portions, when the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged between the plurality of vortex forming portions, the contact between the nicotine in the aerosol and the oxidation catalyst 500 can be increased. That is, since the oxidation catalyst 500 is in a grid form, vortices can be smoothly generated even if the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged between the vortex forming portions, and when the generated vortices flow in the grid-type oxidation catalyst 500, the formation of nicotine salt can be increased. Figure 8a As shown, the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 can be arranged so that one surface through which aerosol and / or air flows and the other surface do not contact the vortex forming member 420. That is, by fixing only two side surfaces of the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 to the vortex forming member 420, the amount of contact between nicotine contained in the aerosol and the oxidation catalyst 500 is increased.

[0176] Reference Figure 8b The mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500 may also be arranged such that the side surfaces of both sides thereof are fixed to the vortex forming member 420, and only one of the one surface through which the aerosol and / or air flows and the other surface contacts the vortex forming member 420. However, the arrangement position of the oxidation catalyst 500 is not limited to the illustrated embodiment.

[0177] exist Figure 8a and Figure 8b Although all the oxidation catalysts 500 are shown to be arranged between the respective vortex forming portions, the amount or number of the oxidation catalysts 500 may be appropriately selected.

[0178] Figure 9 is based on Figure 2a A cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0179] Figure 9 Can be Figure 2a The cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 of the aerosol generating device 1 are an embodiment of the present invention, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0180] In addition, if Figure 9 As shown, the cartridge 100 may include the airflow channel 400, but the cartridge 100 and the airflow channel 400 may be formed separately. For example, the airflow channel 400 may be formed with Figure 2a or Figure 2b The main body 300 is shown as being integrally formed. The airflow channel 400 serves as a channel for allowing aerosol generated by the vaporizer to flow and be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 , and a user can inhale the aerosol through the mouthpiece 100 m in fluid communication with the airflow channel 400 .

[0181] Reference Figure 9 According to one embodiment, the cigarette cartridge 100 may include a storage tank 110 for accommodating a liquid composition and a liquid outlet 111 for discharging the liquid composition to the heater assembly 200. By combining the cigarette cartridge 100 with the heater assembly 200, the liquid outlet 111 of the cigarette cartridge 100 may be in fluid communication with the liquid inlet of the heater assembly 200.

[0182] Although not limited to the situation shown in the figure, preferably, the liquid outflow port 111 is configured to allow the liquid composition contained in the storage tank 110 to flow along the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1 (eg, Figure 9 The liquid flows smoothly in the -z direction) and is delivered to the heater assembly 200 and is located at the lower end portion of the storage tank 110 in the length direction.

[0183] According to an embodiment, an oxidation catalyst 500 may be included inside the cartridge 100. Specifically, the oxidation catalyst 500 may be included inside the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100.

[0184] like Figure 9 As shown, the oxidation catalyst 500 can be arranged to contact the inner wall of the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100. The oxidation catalyst 500 can be formed in a mesh type inside the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100. The shape and arrangement of the oxidation catalyst 500 are not limited thereto. The specific description of the cigarette cartridge 100 and the oxidation catalyst 500 will be referred to. Figures 10a to 10f This will be described later.

[0185] Reference Figure 9 The heater assembly 200 according to an embodiment may include a liquid inlet (not shown), an air inlet 202 , and an air outlet 203 .

[0186] The liquid inlet of the heater assembly 200 can be arranged to connect or communicate the interior of the cartridge 100 with the interior of the heater assembly 200 when the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined. Accordingly, the liquid composition supplied from the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 can flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the liquid inlet.

[0187] For example, the liquid inlet can be arranged in an area where the heater assembly 200 and the cigarette cartridge 100 are combined. When the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined, the liquid outflow port 111 of the cigarette cartridge 100 and the liquid inflow port of the heater assembly 200 can be arranged to be connected or communicated. Accordingly, the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100 can flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the liquid outflow port 111 and the liquid inflow port.

[0188] In the embodiment, the expression "arranged to be connected or communicated" means that the components are connected so that a fluid (e.g., air) can pass through and flow, and the expression can also be used with the same meaning in the following content. According to the embodiment, it can be understood that the liquid outflow port 111 and the liquid inflow port can be connected to each other so that a fluid can pass through and flow. For example, in the state where the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined, the liquid outflow port 111 and the liquid inflow port ( Figure 2b The liquid inlet 201) may not be clearly distinguishable.

[0189] The air inlet 202 may be arranged to connect or communicate the inside and outside of the heater assembly 200 . Air outside the heater assembly 200 (hereinafter, referred to as “outside air”) may flow into the inside of the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202 .

[0190] For example, the air inlet 202 may be disposed in a region of the heater assembly 200 that is separate from the liquid inlet (e.g., a side surface of the heater assembly 200). External air may flow into the interior of the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202. The external air flowing into the heater assembly 200 may move or flow along the chamber 210 disposed within the heater assembly 200 and be heated by the heater 230. A detailed description of this will be provided later.

[0191] The air outlet 203 may be arranged to connect or communicate the inside and outside of the heater assembly 200 . Aerosol and / or air generated inside the heater assembly 200 may be discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 or to the airflow channel 400 through the air outlet 203 .

[0192] For example, the air outlet 203 may be spaced apart from the liquid inlet in a region where the heater assembly 200 is combined with the air flow channel 400 . Aerosol and / or air inside the heater assembly 200 may be exhausted to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air outlet 203 .

[0193] When the cigarette cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined, the aerosol and / or air discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air outlet 203 can move to the inside of the air flow channel 400 and can be discharged to the outside of the air flow channel 400 through the mouthpiece 100m.

[0194] According to an embodiment, the heater assembly 200 may further include an identification terminal (not shown) for identifying whether the cigarette cartridge 100 is coupled or not. The identification terminal may be electrically connected to the main body (eg Figure 2a or Figure 2b The control portion of the main body 300) may be in contact with an area of ​​the cartridge 100 when the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are combined.

[0195] The identification terminal can generate a signal indicating contact with the cartridge 100 when in contact with the cartridge 100, and the generated signal can be transmitted to the electrically connected control unit. The control unit can detect whether the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are connected based on the signal transmitted from the identification terminal.

[0196] For example, when the control unit transmits a signal from the identification terminal, it can determine that the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are in a combined state; when the signal transmission from the identification terminal is interrupted, it can determine that the cartridge 100 and the heater assembly 200 are in a separated state.

[0197] Reference Figure 9 The heater assembly 200 may include a chamber 210, a core 220, and a heater 230. The chamber 210 may be formed in the inner space of the heater assembly 200. In the chamber 210, the liquid composition flowing from the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may be heated by the heater 230 to generate an aerosol.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the chamber 210 may be fluidically communicated or fluidly connected to the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 through the liquid inlet, and the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 of the cartridge 100 may flow into the interior of the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet.

[0199] The wick 220 is arranged in a region adjacent to the liquid inlet in the chamber 210, and can absorb the liquid composition flowing into the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet. For example, at least one region of the wick 220 is arranged to face the liquid inlet so as to be able to absorb the liquid composition flowing into the chamber 210 through the liquid inlet.

[0200] According to one embodiment, core 220 may include ceramic fibers or porous ceramics for absorbing the liquid composition. In other words, core 220 may be a ceramic core. However, core 220 is not limited to the above embodiment. Depending on the embodiment, core 220 may also be formed of other materials (e.g., cotton or glass).

[0201] The heater 230 may be disposed on a side surface of the core 220 (eg, a side facing the +y direction) to heat the liquid composition absorbed by the core 220. For example, the heater 230 may be disposed on a side surface of the core 220 (eg, a side facing the +y direction) to heat the liquid composition absorbed by the core 220. Figure 2a or Figure 2b The liquid composition absorbed by the core 220 is heated using power supplied by a battery in the main body 300 .

[0202] Heater 230 may be made of a metal material that generates heat through electrical resistance. For example, heater 230 may be made of stainless steel to prevent corrosion from the liquid composition absorbed by core 220, but the metal material of heater 230 is not limited thereto. In another example, heater 230 may also include a metal material such as copper, nickel, or tungsten.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the heater 230 may include a conductive pattern printed on one side of the core 220. For example, the heater 230 may be formed by printing a metal material (e.g., stainless steel) on the side of the core 220 facing the +y direction in a predetermined pattern shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0204] According to another embodiment, heater 230 may include a conductive pattern insert-molded onto one side of core 220. For example, heater 230 may be formed by insert-molding a metal material (e.g., stainless steel) into a predetermined pattern on the side of core 220. However, the method of forming heater 230 or the shape of heater 230 is not limited to the above embodiment. According to yet another embodiment (not shown), heater 230 may also include a conductive plate disposed on one side of core 220.

[0205] Since heater 230 is disposed on the side of wick 220, steam generated by heating the liquid composition can be generated in an area of ​​chamber 210 adjacent to the side of wick 220. Steam generated from the liquid composition can be mixed with external air flowing into chamber 210 through air inlet 202.

[0206] At this time, external air may flow into the heater assembly 200 through the air inlet 202 and then move into the chamber 210. The chamber 210 connects the air inlet 202 and the air outlet 203 to form a flow path for external air and / or aerosol to move.

[0207] According to one embodiment, a region of the passage connecting the air inlet 202 and the chamber 210 may be formed by extending along the edge of the heater assembly 200 inside the heater assembly 200 .

[0208] The vapor generated by the liquid composition being heated by the heater 230 may mix with the external air flowing into the chamber 210, resulting in the generation of aerosol in a region of the chamber 210 adjacent to the side surface of the wick 220. The generated aerosol and / or external air may be exhausted to the outside of the heater assembly 200 through the air exhaust port 203.

[0209] The aerosol and / or external air discharged to the outside of the heater assembly 200 can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 through the airflow channel 400. The aerosol and / or external air can be discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1 along the longitudinal direction (e.g., +z direction) of the airflow channel 400.

[0210] Figures 10a to 10f1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating a storage tank of a cigarette cartridge according to an embodiment.

[0211] Reference Figures 10a to 10f For illustration, the length direction of the cartridge 100 may refer to the longest length direction of the cartridge 100. The direction of the longest length of the cartridge 100 may be parallel to the length direction of the aerosol generating device 1. Figures 10a to 10f The z-axis direction.

[0212] According to one embodiment, the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100 may include an oxidation catalyst 500 therein. The storage tank 110 may not only contain a liquid composition containing nicotine and acid, but may also include the oxidation catalyst 500. The oxidation catalyst 500 may be included in the storage tank 110 in various shapes, arrangements, and quantities.

[0213] Oxidation catalyst 500 can be disposed within storage tank 110, allowing nicotine in the liquid composition to contact oxidation catalyst 500, thereby forming additional nicotine salt. Since the liquid composition contains nicotine and acid, nicotine salt is present in the liquid composition. The oxidation catalyst 500 also creates additional nicotine salt, thereby enhancing the user's smoking satisfaction.

[0214] The oxidation catalyst 500 may be selected from metal oxidation catalysts, chlorine-based catalysts, and combinations thereof.

[0215] For example, the metal oxidation catalyst can be selected from one or more of the group consisting of platinum (Pt), palladium (Pd), ruthenium (Ru), rhodium (Rh), silver (Ag), gold (Au), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), vanadium (V), nickel (Ni) and tungsten (W). For example, the chlorine-based catalyst can be selected from Cl2, HClO, OCl - and ClO2 - One or more of the group consisting of.

[0216] The oxidation catalyst 500 disposed inside the storage tank 110 of the cigarette cartridge 100 may be formed using the aforementioned materials, and may be in the form of the aforementioned materials coated on the surface of a structure such as plastic.

[0217] As an example, refer to Figure 10a In the cross-sectional view, at least a portion of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged to contact the inner wall of the storage tank 110. The oxidation catalyst 500 may be adhered to the inner wall of the storage tank 110, or may be integrally formed with the storage tank 110. The integral formation of the storage tank 110 and the oxidation catalyst 500 may be performed by insert molding.

[0218] The oxidation catalyst 500 can contact the liquid composition contained within the storage tank 110 to form nicotine salt. To ensure nicotine salt formation even when a small amount of liquid composition remains, the oxidation catalyst 500 can be positioned relatively low in the storage tank 110. Specifically, it can be positioned at the lower portion of the cartridge 100 in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the lower portion in the z-axis direction).

[0219] exist Figure 10a , a case where one oxidation catalyst 500 is included is shown, but a plurality of oxidation catalysts 500 may be included. In addition, the form or arrangement position of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be varied.

[0220] Reference Figure 10b In the cross-sectional view, the oxidation catalyst 500 contacts the inner wall of the storage tank 110, and the length direction of the oxidation catalyst 500 can be arranged along the length direction of the cigarette cartridge 100. The length direction of the oxidation catalyst 500 can indicate the direction with the longest length in the oxidation catalyst 500. The length direction of the oxidation catalyst 500 can be parallel to the length direction of the cigarette cartridge 100.

[0221] Since the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged to contact the inner wall along the longitudinal direction of the cigarette cartridge 100 , the liquid composition can smoothly flow out to the liquid outflow port 111 .

[0222] Furthermore, the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged to extend to the lower portion of the cartridge 100 in the longitudinal direction (eg, the lower portion in the z-axis direction), so that nicotine salt can be formed even when a small amount of the liquid composition remains.

[0223] However, not limited to Figure 10b In the illustrated embodiment, the form, arrangement position, number, etc. of the oxidation catalyst 500 can of course be variously set.

[0224] exist Figure 10b In the illustrated embodiment, the oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged to be separated from the liquid outflow channel 111 a toward the liquid outflow outlet 111 . This arrangement allows the liquid composition to smoothly flow toward the liquid outflow outlet 111 .

[0225] Next, refer to Figure 10c In the cross-sectional view, one surface of the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged toward the inner wall of the cigarette cartridge 100, and the other surface of the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged toward the center of the cigarette cartridge 100. The other surface of the oxidation catalyst 500 may have multiple concave and convex shapes. By forming concave and convex shapes on the other surface of the oxidation catalyst 500, the contact between nicotine and the oxidation catalyst 500 can be increased. The shape of the concave and convex shapes is not limited to the shape shown in the figure and can be formed in various ways.

[0226] exist Figure 10c In the illustrated embodiment, the oxidation catalyst 500 may be arranged to be separated from the liquid outflow channel 111a toward the liquid outflow outlet 111. The liquid outflow channel 111a may represent a passage for the liquid composition stored in the storage tank 110 toward the liquid outflow outlet 111. This arrangement allows the liquid composition to flow smoothly toward the liquid outflow outlet 111.

[0227] Reference Figure 10d As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , the oxidation catalyst 500 may be disposed on the inner wall of the liquid outflow channel 111 a of the storage tank 110 .

[0228] Since the oxidation catalyst 500 is disposed on the inner wall of the liquid outflow channel 111 a , even when a small amount of liquid composition remains, the oxidation catalyst 500 can contact nicotine passing through the liquid outflow channel 111 a to form nicotine salt.

[0229] Reference Figure 10e In the cross-sectional view, at least a portion of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be a mesh type. Figure 10e , the entire oxidation catalyst 500 is shown as a mesh type, but only a portion may be formed in a mesh type.

[0230] Since the oxidation catalyst 500 is formed in a grid shape, it is possible to increase the contact between the nicotine in the liquid composition contained in the storage tank 110 and the oxidation catalyst 500. Therefore, by increasing the formation of nicotine salt, the user's smoking satisfaction can be improved.

[0231] The smaller the pore size of the mesh-type oxidation catalyst 500, the greater the contact area between nicotine and the oxidation catalyst 500. However, the smaller the pore size, the less likely it is that the liquid composition will flow smoothly. Therefore, the pore size may be appropriately set in consideration of the above-mentioned influence.

[0232] The grid-shaped oxidation catalyst 500 can be arranged in a direction such that its length direction is transverse to the length direction of the cigarette cartridge 100. In the case of a grid-shaped oxidation catalyst 500, the liquid composition can flow smoothly even if the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged in a direction transverse to the flow direction of the liquid composition (i.e., the direction of discharge to the heater assembly 200 through the liquid outflow port 111 (e.g., the -z direction)).

[0233] Reference Figure 10f In the cross-sectional view of FIG, at least a portion of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be in a grid type and may be arranged in a direction (eg, x-axis direction) transverse to the length direction (eg, z-axis direction) of the liquid outflow channel 111a.

[0234] The oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged in the liquid outflow channel 111a. Even if a small amount of liquid composition remains, it can contact nicotine passing through the liquid outflow channel 111a to form nicotine salt. Furthermore, by arranging the oxidation catalyst 500 in a grid pattern, the liquid composition can flow smoothly even if the oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged in a direction transverse to the flow direction of the liquid composition (e.g., the -z direction).

[0235] According to one embodiment, a plurality of oxidation catalysts 500 may be included in the storage tank 110. The arrangement and shape of the oxidation catalysts 500 described above may be mixed.

[0236] Figures 10a to 10f An embodiment in which one oxidation catalyst 500 is arranged inside the storage tank 110 is shown, but the amount or number of the oxidation catalyst 500 may be appropriately selected.

[0237] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0238] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 20, 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 11 That is, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 1, a person with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that the Figure 11 A part of the shown configuration may be modified, or a new configuration may be further added.

[0239] The sensor 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 20. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 20 can control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether the insertion rod S and / or the cartridge 19 is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

[0240] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131 , a puff sensor 132 , an insertion sensing sensor 133 , a reuse sensing sensor 134 , a cartridge sensing sensor 135 , a cover sensing sensor 136 , and a motion sensing sensor 137 .

[0241] The temperature sensor 131 can sense the temperature heated by the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 itself may perform the role of a temperature sensor.

[0242] 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 resistance element whose resistance value changes corresponding to the temperature change of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented by a thermistor or the like, which is an element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. At this time, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistance element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 can be composed of a sensor that detects 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.

[0243] The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged around the power source 11 to monitor the temperature of the power source 11. The temperature sensor 131 may be arranged adjacent to the power source 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one surface of a battery serving as the power source 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one surface of a printed circuit board.

[0244] The temperature sensor 131 may be disposed inside the body to sense the internal temperature of the body.

[0245] The puff sensor 132 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow channel. 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. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 can correspond to the pressure of the airflow channel through which gas flows. The puff sensor 132 can be arranged corresponding to the airflow channel through which gas flows in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0246] The insertion sensing sensor 133 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the rod S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect signal changes when the rod S is inserted and / or removed. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can be positioned around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the rod S based on changes in the dielectric constant within the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 133 can be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0247] The inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around the coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. The characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the AC current.

[0248] An inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0249] The capacitive sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic properties of the surrounding area (e.g., the capacitance around the conductor). For example, when a rod S containing a package of metallic material is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic properties of the surrounding area of ​​the conductor may be altered by the packaging of the rod S.

[0250] The reuse sensing sensor 134 can sense whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse sensing sensor 134 can be a color sensor. The color sensor can sense the color of the stick S. The color sensor can sense the color of a portion 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 with the proximity sensor or as a separate component distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0251] At least a portion of the packaging comprising the stick S can change color due to the aerosol. When the stick S is inserted into the insertion space, the reuse sensing sensor 134 can be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the packaging changes color due to the aerosol. For example, before a user uses the stick S, the color of at least a portion of the packaging can be a first color. In this case, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the packaging is moistened by the aerosol, causing the color of at least a portion of the packaging to change to a second color. Furthermore, after the color of at least a portion of the packaging changes from the first color to the second color, the second color can be maintained.

[0252] The cigarette cartridge sensing sensor 135 can sense the installation and / or removal of the cigarette cartridge 19. The cigarette cartridge sensing sensor 135 can be implemented by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), or the like.

[0253] The lid sensing sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the lid. When the lid is separated from the main body, the cigarette cartridge 19 and a portion of the main body covered by the lid may be exposed to the outside. The lid sensing sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall effect IC, a light sensor, etc.

[0254] The motion sensing sensor 137 can sense the motion of the aerosol generating device and can be implemented by at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0255] 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., a global positioning system (GPS)), and a proximity sensor. Since the functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from the sensor names by those skilled in the art, detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0256] The output unit 14 can output information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 1 and provide the information to the user. The output unit 14 may 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 a touch panel form a stacked structure to form a touch screen, the display 141 can function as an input device in addition to being an output device.

[0257] 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 information such as the charging / discharging status of the power source 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 restricted use status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., detection of an abnormal object). The display 141 can also output this information externally. For example, the display 141 can be in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED) light-emitting element. For example, the display 141 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an organic light-emitting display (OLED) panel, or the like.

[0258] The tactile portion 142 can provide tactile information about the aerosol generating device 1 to the user by converting electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimulation. For example, when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 within a set time, the tactile portion 142 can generate a vibration corresponding to the end of the initial preheating. The tactile portion 142 can include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0259] The sound output unit 143 can provide the user with information regarding the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output unit 143 can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0260] The power supply 11 can supply power for operating the aerosol generating device 1 . The power supply 11 can supply power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 . Furthermore, the power supply 11 can supply power required for operating the sensor 13 , output unit 14 , input unit 15 , communication unit 16 , and memory 17 , which are other components included in the aerosol generating device 1 . The power supply 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPo) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0261] although Figure 11 Not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the power source 11 and may include a switching element.

[0262] The power supply protection circuit can shut down the power supply 11 according to predetermined conditions. For example, the power supply protection circuit can shut down the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is greater than or equal to a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power supply protection circuit can shut down the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0263] The heater 18 can receive power from the power source 11 to heat the medium or aerosol-generating substance in the rod S. Figure 11 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a direct current / direct current (DC / DC) converter) that converts 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 generates aerosol using induction heating, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a direct current / alternating current (DC / AC) converter that converts the DC power of the power source 11 into alternating current (AC).

[0264] The control unit 20, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 may receive power from the power supply 11 to perform their functions. Figure 11 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (eg, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit) that converts the power of the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component. Figure 11 Although 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 a 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 sensors 13, such as the insertion sensing sensor 133.

[0265] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be formed using any suitable resistive material. For example, suitable resistive materials can include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nickel-chromium alloys. Furthermore, the heater 18 can be implemented using, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate with conductive tracks, or a ceramic heating element.

[0266] In another embodiment, the heater 18 may be an induction heating heater, for example, the heater 18 may include a base that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-forming substance.

[0267] The input unit 15 can receive information input by a user or 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, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), an infrared touch sensor, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0268] The display 141 and the touch panel may be implemented as one panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display 141 (i.e., an on-cell type or an in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added (add-on type) to the panel of the display 141.

[0269] In addition, the input unit 15 may include a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a wheel, a roller switch, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0270] The memory 17 serves as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1. It can store data processed by the control unit 20 and data to be processed. The memory 17 can include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro-type memory, card-type memory (e.g., secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (XD) memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 17 can store, for example, 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 data specific to the user's smoking pattern.

[0271] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0272] The short-range wireless communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field wireless communication unit (Near Field Communication unit), a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant + Communications department, etc., but not limited to.

[0273] The wireless communication unit may include a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0274] although Figure 11 Not 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 connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information, or to charge the power supply 11 .

[0275] The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 20 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. Furthermore, persons having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment relates will appreciate that the processor may also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0276] The control unit 20 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the power supplied by the power source 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 20 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 20 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 20 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature curve information stored in the memory 17.

[0277] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil. 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 20 may control the power supply circuit.

[0278] The control unit 20 can control the power supply by controlling the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power source 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0279] The control unit 20 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 20 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 20 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.

[0280] The control unit 20 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling 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 using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0281] The control unit 20 can adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit. When the switching element is continuously in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can be equivalent to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. As the duty cycle of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can decrease. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0282] The control unit 20 may control the power supply to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a PID (Proportional-Integral-Differential) method.

[0283] For example, the control unit 20 may use PWM control to supply current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18. The control unit 20 may control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0284] For example, the control unit 20 may determine a target temperature to be controlled based on the temperature curve. The control unit 20 controls the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method based on the 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.

[0285] The control unit 20 can prevent the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 20 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset limit temperature to interrupt the supply of power to the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 20 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a predetermined proportion based on the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeding a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 20 can determine that the aerosol generating substance contained in the cigarette cartridge 19 is exhausted based on the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 exceeding the limit temperature, and thus can cut off the power supply to the cigarette cartridge heater 24.

[0286] The control unit 20 may control the charge / discharge of the power source 11. The control unit 20 may confirm the temperature of the power source 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0287] When an electric wire is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generating device 1, the control unit 20 can confirm whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a first limit temperature, which serves as a reference for cutting off charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limit temperature, the control unit 20 can control the power supply 11 to be charged based on a preset charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the first limit temperature, the control unit 20 can cut off charging of the power supply 11.

[0288] When the aerosol generating device 1 is powered on, the control unit 20 can confirm whether the temperature of the power source 11 is above a second limit temperature, which serves as a reference for shutting off discharge from the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is below the second limit temperature, the control unit 20 can control the use of the power stored in the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 20 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power source 11.

[0289] The control portion 20 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source 11. For example, the control portion 20 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power source 11 based on a voltage and / or current sensing value of the power source 11.

[0290] The control unit 20 can determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. The control unit 20 can determine that the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal of the insertion sensing sensor 133. If the stick S is determined to be inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 20 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 20 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0291] The control unit 20 can determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 20 can determine whether the rod S has been removed from the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. For example, if the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature, or if the temperature gradient of the heater 18 exceeds a set gradient, the control unit 20 can determine that the rod S has been removed from the insertion space. If the rod S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 20 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0292] The control unit 20 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 20 can identify a level range encompassing the level of the capacitance sensor signal based on a lookup table. The control unit 20 can determine the moisture content of the rod S based on the identified level range.

[0293] When the rod S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 20 can increase the preheating time compared to a normal state by controlling the power supply time to the heater 18 .

[0294] The control unit 20 can use the reuse sensing sensor 134 to determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused. For example, the control unit 20 can compare the sensed value of the reuse sensing sensor's signal with a first reference range including a first color. If the sensed value falls within the first reference range, the control unit 20 can determine that the stick S has not been used. For example, the control unit 20 can compare the sensed value of the reuse sensing sensor's signal with a second reference range including a second color. If the sensed value falls within the second reference range, the control unit 20 can determine that the stick S has been used. If the control unit 20 determines that the stick S has been used, it can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0295] The control unit 20 can determine whether to combine and / or remove the cigarette cartridge 19 through the cigarette cartridge sensing sensor 135. For example, the control unit 20 can determine whether to combine and / or remove the cigarette cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal of the cigarette cartridge sensing sensor.

[0296] The control unit 20 can determine whether the aerosol-generating substance in the cigarette cartridge 19 is depleted. For example, the control unit 20 applies power to preheat the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and determines whether the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating interval. If the temperature of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, it can be determined that the aerosol-generating substance in the cigarette cartridge 19 is depleted. If the aerosol-generating substance in the cigarette cartridge 19 is determined to be depleted, the control unit 20 can cut off the power to the cigarette cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0297] The control unit 20 can determine whether the cigarette cartridge 19 can be used. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 20 can determine that the cigarette cartridge 19 cannot be used if the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the cigarette cartridge 19. For example, the control unit 20 can determine that the cigarette cartridge 19 cannot be used if the total heating time of the cigarette cartridge heater 24 exceeds the preset maximum time or the total power supplied to the cigarette cartridge heater 24 exceeds the preset maximum power.

[0298] The control unit 20 can use the puff sensor 132 to determine whether the user has inhaled. For example, the control unit 20 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensed value of the puff sensor signal. For example, the control unit 20 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensed value of the puff sensor signal 132. If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number, or if no puff is sensed for a preset period of time, the control unit 20 can cut off power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0299] The control portion 20 may determine whether to attach and / or remove the cover through the cover sensing sensor 136. For example, the control portion 20 may determine whether to attach and / or remove the cover based on a sensed value of a signal of the cover sensing sensor.

[0300] The control unit 20 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. For example, if the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 20 can notify the user of the impending termination of the aerosol generating device 1 through at least one of the display 141, the tactile unit 142, and the audio output unit 143. For example, the control unit 20 can notify the user through the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 20 can notify the user through the output unit 14 based on a determination that the cartridge 19 and / or the cap are not installed. For example, the control unit 20 can transmit information regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user through the output unit 14.

[0301] The control unit 20 can store and update a history of events in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. These events may include the following events executed in the aerosol generating device 1: sensing the insertion of a stick S, starting heating of the stick S, sensing a puff, ending a puff, sensing overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, sensing overvoltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, ending heating of the stick S, turning the aerosol generating device 1 on / off, etc., starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharge of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. The event history 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 sensing the insertion of a stick S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensed value of the insertion sensing sensor 133. For example, in a case where the predetermined event is overheat sensing 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 through the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, etc.

[0302] The control unit 20 can control the formation of a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. If authentication data is received from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 20 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. The authentication data can include data indicating completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number representing the user, etc., and receive data regarding the user's permission to use the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. Based on the permission data, the external device can transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1. If user authentication is completed, the control unit 20 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, if user authentication is completed, the control unit 20 can remove usage restrictions on the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0303] The control unit 20 may transmit data regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device may output information such as the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1 and the operating mode through a display of the external device.

[0304] The external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol generating device 1 based on an input for initiating a location search of the aerosol generating device 1. Upon receiving the location search request from the external device, the control unit 20 may control at least one of the output devices based on the received location search request to perform an operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the haptic unit 142 may vibrate in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0305] If firmware data is received from an external device, the control unit 20 may control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform a firmware update. The external device may confirm the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generating device 1 and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. Upon receiving an input requesting firmware download, 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. The control unit 20 may control the aerosol generating device 1 to perform a firmware update by receiving the new version of the firmware data.

[0306] The control unit 20 transmits data regarding the sensed values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16. The control unit 20 may also receive and store a learning model generated by training the sensed values ​​using machine learning techniques such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 20 may use the trained model received from the server to perform operations such as determining a user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 20 may 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 may store a database for various structures of the aerosol generating device 1 used for training the ANN, as well as weights and biases that form the ANN structure. The control unit 20 may generate at least one trained model for determining a user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, and the like by training the data regarding the sensed values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, and the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0307] The certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not intended to be mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The respective configurations or functions of the certain embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used or combined.

[0308] For example, it means that a configuration A described in a specific embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with a configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, it means that even if there is no direct description of the combination between the configurations, the combination between the configurations is possible, except for cases where it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0309] The above detailed description should be considered as illustrative in all aspects and should not be interpreted as restrictive. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: A vaporizer comprising a storage tank and a heater assembly, wherein the storage tank contains a liquid composition comprising nicotine and acid, and the heater assembly heats the liquid composition to generate an aerosol; as well as an air flow channel for discharging the aerosol generated from the vaporizer to the outside of the aerosol generating device, An oxidation catalyst is included in at least one of an interior of the air flow channel and an interior of the storage tank.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The oxidation catalyst is selected from the group consisting of metal oxidation catalysts, chlorine-based catalysts, and combinations thereof.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: At least a portion of the oxidation catalyst is of a mesh type.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The air flow passage includes an oxidation catalyst therein, and further includes a vortex forming member that forms a vortex around the oxidation catalyst.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The vortex forming member extends from an inner wall of the air flow passage in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of the air flow passage, and forms a vortex at a predetermined interval from the oxidation catalyst.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein: The longitudinal direction of the vortex forming member is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the air flow channel. One surface of the vortex forming member faces the inner wall of the air flow channel, and the other surface faces the center of the air flow channel. The other surface of the vortex flow forming member has a plurality of vortex flow forming portions.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein: The oxidation catalyst is arranged between the plurality of vortex forming portions.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The air flow channel includes a mesh-type oxidation catalyst inside, and further includes a vortex forming member that forms a vortex around the oxidation catalyst.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein: The vortex forming members are multiple and extend from the inner wall of the air flow channel in a direction transverse to the length direction of the air flow channel. The multiple vortex forming members are spaced apart from each other.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein: The longitudinal direction of the vortex forming member is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the air flow channel. One surface of the vortex forming member faces the inner wall of the air flow channel, and the other surface faces the center of the air flow channel. The other surface of the vortex flow forming member has a plurality of vortex flow forming portions.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein: The oxidation catalyst is arranged between the plurality of vortex forming portions.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The air flow channel includes a mesh-type oxidation catalyst inside, and the mesh-type oxidation catalyst is arranged in a direction transverse to a direction in which the air flow channel extends.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The storage tank includes an oxidation catalyst therein, and at least a portion of the oxidation catalyst is arranged to be in contact with an inner wall of the storage tank.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein: The length direction of the oxidation catalyst is arranged along the length direction of the storage tank.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 13, wherein: At least a portion of the oxidation catalyst is in a grid-like shape, and a longitudinal direction of the oxidation catalyst is arranged to cross a longitudinal direction of the storage tank.

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