Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The invention discloses an aerosol generating device. An aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure may include a body providing an insertion space extending in an elongated shape, a wand having a medium portion disposed therein and inserted into the insertion space, a susceptor surrounding the insertion space and extending in a length direction of the insertion space, and a conductive track disposed in the insertion space and electrically conductive to the susceptor. A heater surrounding the susceptor and heating the susceptor and the insertion space; a downstream-side end of the conductive track may be aligned with a downstream-side end of a medium portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space in a radial direction of the insertion space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating devices are used to extract specified components from a medium or substance via aerosols. The medium can contain various substances. These substances can include various flavor compounds. For example, the medium may contain nicotine, herbal components, and / or caffeine components. Recently, extensive research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices.

[0003] A rod heated by an aerosol generating device may include a medium and a humectant. The heater of the aerosol generating device heats the rod inserted into the device, thereby generating nicotine vapor by heating the medium or generating humectant vapor by heating the humectant. When the amount of nicotine vapor generated deviates significantly from the number of times the user inhales the nicotine vapor, or when the deviation in the amount of nicotine vapor generated is large, the user may experience a sensation of unease.

[0004] In addition, the characteristics of the heating rod may vary depending on the structure and configuration of the heater. When the heater is not designed or configured according to the structure of the rod, there is a problem that the medium or humectant inside the rod cannot be properly heated. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem the invention aims to solve The purpose of this disclosure is to resolve the above-mentioned problems and other issues.

[0006] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a structure in which the downstream end of a conductive track is aligned with the downstream end of a medium portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating device having a structure in which the downstream end of the sensor is aligned with the downstream end of the conductive track.

[0008] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a structure in which a sensor surrounds a medium portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion.

[0009] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus having a structure in which conductive tracks surround a medium portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion.

[0010] means for solving problems According to one aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: a main body providing an insertion space extending in an elongated shape; a rod having a medium portion disposed inside the rod and inserted into the insertion space; a sensor extending around the insertion space and along the length direction of the insertion space; and a conductive track surrounding the sensor and heating the sensor and the insertion space; a downstream end of the conductive track is aligned in the radial direction of the insertion space with a downstream end of the medium portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space.

[0011] Invention Effects According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, a structure is provided in which the downstream end of the conductive track is aligned with the downstream end of the medium portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space, thereby reducing the deviation in the amount of vapor generated during each suction.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which the downstream end of the sensor is aligned with the downstream end of the conductive track, thereby enabling the heating temperature of the medium to be increased and the heat transfer efficiency to be improved.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the sensor has a structure that surrounds a medium portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion, thereby reducing the deviation in the amount of vapor generated during each suction.

[0014] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, a structure is provided in which conductive tracks surround a dielectric portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion, thereby increasing the amount of vapor generated.

[0015] The possible additional scope of application of this disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, it should be understood that specific embodiments, such as the detailed description and preferred embodiments of this disclosure, are given by way of example only. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5This is a diagram illustrating the conductive tracks of a heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly structure of a heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a rod according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the state in which a rod is inserted into a heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a graph comparing the conductive track of one embodiment of the present disclosure with the heating temperature according to the sensor configuration structure.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a graph comparing the conductive track of one embodiment of the present disclosure with the amount of nicotine vapor according to the configuration of the dielectric section.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a graph comparing the amount of humectant vapor in a sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with that in a humectant vapor configuration based on an aerosol substrate portion. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The embodiments disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Identical or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, regardless of the reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted. Similar or related components may use similar reference numerals in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used for the constituent elements in the following description are assigned or used interchangeably for ease of writing the specification only, and do not imply that they have distinct meanings or functions. On the other hand, the suffixes “module” and “unit” can include units implemented by hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, or circuit. A “module” and “unit” can be a monolithically formed component, or the smallest unit or part of said component performing more than one function. For example, “module” and “unit” can be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0029] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if they are deemed to obscure the main idea of ​​the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for facilitating understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. The technical concepts disclosed in the specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included within the scope of the ideas and techniques of this disclosure.

[0030] Terms containing ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc., can be used to describe multiple constituent elements. However, the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0031] When a constituent element is "connected" or "joined" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or joined to the other constituent element. However, it should be understood that other constituent elements may exist between the two. Conversely, when a constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly joined" to another constituent element, it should be understood that no other constituent elements exist between the two.

[0032] Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the context, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0033] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented as software including one or more instructions stored in a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., memory 17). For example, a processor (e.g., control unit 12) of the machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1) can invoke at least one of the more than one instructions stored in the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to perform at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The more than one instruction may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means only that the storage medium is a tangible device, excluding signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored.

[0034] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis direction can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The y-axis direction can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generating device 1. The z-axis direction can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0035] Figure 1This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and / or heaters 18 and 24. However, based on the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 1 Some of the constituent elements shown may be omitted, or other constituent elements may be added.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the detected information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a reuse detection sensor, an overly moist detection sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, a cap detection sensor, and / or a movement detection sensor. On the other hand, the sensor unit 13 may also include various sensors, such as a liquid remaining sensor for detecting the remaining liquid in the cartridge, and a water immersion sensor for detecting water immersion in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0038] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature at which heaters 18 and 24 are heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an additional temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, or the heaters 18 and 24 themselves may function as temperature sensors. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance of heater 18. The impedance of heater 18 may be correlated with the temperature of heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0039] As an example, the temperature sensor may include a resistive element (e.g., a thermistor) whose resistance value changes in response to temperature changes in heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature changes of heaters 18 and 24 based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0040] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of heaters 18 and 24, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of heaters 18 and 24 based on the signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can detect the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be configured adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to one side of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on one side of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a power protection circuit (protection circuit module, PCM), and the temperature sensor can be configured adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor can also be disposed inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to detect the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can detect the user's suction.

[0044] As an example, the suction sensor may include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1, and the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the signal corresponding to the internal pressure. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow path. The suction sensor may be configured to correspond to the gas flow path in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0045] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user suctions, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow path, the space where the aerosol generating item is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), heaters 18 and 24, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user suction based on a signal corresponding to the temperature of the airflow path, etc., output from the temperature sensor.

[0046] As another example, the suction sensor may also include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature, which is used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. For example, the suction sensor can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and output the corrected signal. As another example, the suction sensor can output both a signal corresponding to the temperature measured by the temperature sensor and a signal corresponding to the internal pressure measured by the suction sensor. In this case, the control unit 12 receives these signals and can correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0047] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitance sensor. In this disclosure, the capacitance sensor may be referred to as a capacitive sensor. When a user suctions, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thus the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may change. The control unit 12 can detect the user suction based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output by the capacitance sensor.

[0048] The suction sensor is not limited to the examples above, and can be implemented by a variety of sensors used to detect a user's suction.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion detection sensor can be disposed around the insertion space. Alternatively, the insertion detection sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0050] As an example, the insertion detection sensor may include a capacitance sensor. The capacitance sensor may include at least one conductor, which may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space, the dielectric constant around the conductor may change. The control unit 12 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant or similar information output by the capacitance sensor within the insertion space.

[0051] As another example, the insertion detection sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, which may be configured adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., the wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil through which current flows when the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 may detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article) may also include a susceptor (SUS), etc. Even in this case, a change in the magnetic field may occur around the coil based on the insertion or removal of the susceptor, etc., within the insertion space, and the control unit 12 may also detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the characteristics of the current from the inductive sensor.

[0052] The insertion detection sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to detect the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion detection sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor may also include a switch, etc., for detecting pressure caused by the aerosol-generating article.

[0053] According to one embodiment, a reuse detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is reused. As an example, the reuse detection sensor can be a color sensor for detecting the color of the aerosol-generating article. When a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer packaging paper may change due to the generated aerosol or heating. The color sensor can output a signal corresponding to the optical characteristics (e.g., wavelength of light) of the color of the packaging paper, based on light reflected from it. When a change in the color of a portion of the packaging paper is detected, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0054] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity detection sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humidity state. For example, the over-humidity detection sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humidity state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output by the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm a level range including the signal level based on a lookup table, and can determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or detect the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0056] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for detecting an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., packaging paper) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the reflected light. For example, the identification substance may include a substance that emits light of a specific wavelength based on the illuminated light. The control unit 12 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the range of said wavelengths.

[0057] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 may detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article based on a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant inside the insertion space output by the capacitive sensor.

[0058] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging paper and / or interior (e.g., the dielectric portion) of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space includes a conductor, the characteristics of the current detected by the inductive sensor when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the insertion space (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of alternating current) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 may detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article based on the characteristics of the current output from or detected by the inductive sensor.

[0059] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by various sensors used to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or to detect the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples above.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the cartridge detection sensor can detect the installation and / or removal of a cartridge. For example, the cartridge detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0061] According to one embodiment, a cover detection sensor can detect the installation and / or removal of a cover. For example, the cover detection sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor, and / or an optical sensor. The cover may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge installed or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. When the cover is installed in or removed from the housing, the cover detection sensor can output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the control unit 12 can detect the installation or removal of the cover based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0062] According to one embodiment, a motion detection sensor can detect the movement of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion detection sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer or a gyroscope.

[0063] According to one embodiment, in addition to the sensors described above, the sensor unit 13 may also include at least one of a humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (Global Positioning System (GPS)), and a proximity sensor. Those skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, therefore detailed descriptions are unnecessary.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the output unit 14 can output information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display, a tactile unit, and / or an audio output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heaters 18 and 24, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cover, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., an abnormal article is detected). The display can provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 visually. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED) light-emitting element, a liquid crystal display (LCD), and an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). When the display includes a touchpad, it can also be used as an input unit 15. The tactile unit can provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 tactilely. For example, the tactile part may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The audio output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 through hearing. For example, the audio output part can convert electrical signals into audio signals and output them to the outside.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The power source 11 may include one or more batteries. The power source 11 can supply power to heat the heaters 18 and 24. Additionally, the power source 11 can supply power required to operate other structures included in the aerosol generating device 1, such as the control unit 12, sensor unit 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power source 11 can be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power source 11 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto. The power source 11 can be a replaceable (detachable) battery (hereinafter, a removable battery). The removable battery can be installed in a battery housing provided within the aerosol generating device 1, or detached from the battery housing. The removable battery can also be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0066] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can receive power from power source 11 to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge heater 24 for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0067] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be resistance heaters. For example, resistance heaters can include resistive materials such as metals or metal alloys, including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome alloys. Resistance heaters can be implemented as metal heating wires, metal heating plates with conductive tracks, ceramic heating elements, etc.

[0068] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be induction heating type heaters. For example, an induction heating type heater may include a sensor that heats through a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through the induction coil can generate a magnetic field in the induction coil. The generated magnetic field can pass through the heater and can generate eddy currents in the sensor. The sensor can be heated based on the generation of eddy currents. According to one embodiment, the sensor may also be included inside the aerosol generating article (e.g., a medium section). In this case, the sensor included inside the aerosol generating article can be heated by the induction coil.

[0069] Heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples above, and may also include various heating methods, structures, components, etc., for heating aerosol-generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or be replaced by these.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by the user. For example, the input unit 15 may include a touch panel, a button, a keyboard, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 serves as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generating apparatus 1, and can store data already processed by the control unit 12 as well as data to be processed. For example, the memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. For example, the memory 17 may store data such as the operating time of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic machines). For example, the communication unit 16 may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication unit, a Wireless Fidelity Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Adaptive Network Topology (Ant)+ communication unit, a Cellular Network Communication Unit, an Internet Communication Unit, a Computer Network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the overall aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller unit (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program executable in the MCU. Furthermore, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains, it can also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the power supply from the power source 11 to heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 detected by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 and / or the power supplied to heaters 18 and 24 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 17.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18 and 24 and the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a DC / DC converter (e.g., a buck converter, buck-boost converter, boost converter, Zener diode, etc.) for converting the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, and a DC / AC converter (e.g., an inverter) for converting the power supplied to the induction coil (not shown). The DC / AC converter can be implemented as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including multiple switching elements. For example, the power conversion circuit may include at least one switching element such as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or a field-effect transistor (FET).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can regulate the current and / or voltage supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulses input to at least one switching element of the power conversion circuit (not shown). The duty cycle of the switching element's on / off operation can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using at least one of pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID) methods. For example, the control unit 12 can use PWM to control the supply of current pulses with a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heaters 18 and 24. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the target temperature as the control objective based on a temperature curve. The control unit 12 can use a PID method (a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time) to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power that becomes the control objective based on the power curve. The control unit 12 can also control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 over time to correspond to the preset target power.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect user suction by detecting the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 using a PID control method. When user suction occurs, the space where the aerosol generating article is inserted (hereinafter, the insertion space), heaters 18 and 24, etc., may experience a temporary temperature drop. Therefore, during the PID-controlled power supply process, the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may change. The control unit 12 can detect user suction based on the change in the controlled power.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, when the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset limit temperature, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to reduce the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can use a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine the temperature of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off the charging of the power supply 11. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is above a second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11 (e.g., discharging). The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the results detected by the sensor unit 13.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol-generating article relative to the insertion space. For example, when the insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When the insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heaters 18 and 24 is above a set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the state of the aerosol generating article. For example, when it is determined by using an over-humidity detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) that the aerosol generating article is in an over-humidity state, the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generated article is reused. For example, when it is determined that the aerosol-generated article is being used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is attached and / or removed. For example, when the cartridge detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the cartridge is in a separated state, the control unit 12 can interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or control that power is not supplied to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. For example, when it is determined that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating process (i.e., within the preheating range), the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. When it is determined that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the cartridge is usable. For example, when the control unit 12 determines that the current number of puffs is greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge based on data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable. Alternatively, when the total heating time of the heaters 18 and 24 is greater than a preset maximum time or the total power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 is greater than a preset maximum power, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge is unusable. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or prevent power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the user's suction. For example, the control unit 12 can use a suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to determine whether suction occurs and / or the intensity of suction. When the number of suctions reaches a preset maximum number of suctions and / or when no suction is detected for a preset period of time or more, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When suction is detected, the control unit 12 can also control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is genuine and / or the type of the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). For example, the control unit 12 can use a cigarette identification sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) to detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of the aerosol-generating article. As an example, when a counterfeit aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When a genuine aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected, the control unit 12 can control (e.g., start) the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 in different ways depending on the type of aerosol-generating article (or cartridge). More specifically, when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a first aerosol generating article (or first cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a first temperature curve (or a first power curve), and when the aerosol generating article (or cartridge) is detected as a second aerosol generating article (or second cartridge), the control unit 12 can control the temperature and / or power of the heaters 18 and 24 based on a second temperature curve (or a second power curve).

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor unit 13. For example, when the number of suctions counted by the suction sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information that the aerosol generating device 1 is about to end in a visual, tactile, and / or auditory manner. For example, the control unit 12 can also control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 in a visual, tactile, and / or auditory manner.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the historical records of events that occur based on the occurrence of predetermined events in the memory 17. For example, events may include actions performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1, such as: insertion detection of the aerosol generating article, start of heating of the aerosol generating article, suction detection, end of suction, overheat detection of heaters 18 and 24, overvoltage application detection of heaters 18 and 24, end of heating of the aerosol generating article, power on / off of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, start of charging of the power supply 11, overcharge detection of the power supply 11, end of charging of the power supply 11, etc. For example, the historical records of events may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, when the predetermined event is the insertion detection of the aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, when the predetermined event is the overheat detection of heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, and the current flowing through heaters 18 and 24.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the communication unit 16 to form a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal.

[0094] According to one embodiment, when receiving authentication data from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove restrictions on the use of at least one function (e.g., heating function) of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique identifier for the user, and whether the user's authentication was completed.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., remaining capacity of the power supply 11, operating mode, etc.) to an external device via a communication link. The transmitted data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0096] According to one embodiment, when a location search request for the aerosol generating device 1 is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to perform an action corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0097] According to one embodiment, when firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can transmit data regarding the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​through machine learning such as deep learning from the server. The control unit 12 can use the learning model received from the server to perform actions such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0099] although Figure 1 Although not shown, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may include at least one switching element and, in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging of the power supply 11, disconnect the circuit of the power supply 11. The aerosol generating device 1 also includes a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and can connect to other external devices to send and receive information, or charge the power supply 11 via the connection interface.

[0100] The aerosol generating article mentioned in this disclosure may include at least one aerosol generating rod (e.g., a medium section) and at least one filter rod. The heater 18 may be configured to correspond to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be arranged differently depending on the arrangement order and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may include at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may include glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin, VG) and / or propylene glycol (PG), and may also include various other substances. For example, the additive may include flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may also include various other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may include an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., an aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine) and / or a solid tobacco substance (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). The tobacco substance may be included in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shredded tobacco, granules, powder, etc. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may include an alkaline substance. According to the alkaline substance, the nicotine of the tobacco substance included in the aerosol generating rod has an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, free-base nicotine can be released from the aerosol generating rod even at low temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod includes two or more aerosol generating rods, which may further include tobacco substance and / or non-tobacco substance respectively. On the other hand, although not illustrated, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may be individually and / or integrally wrapped by at least one wrapping paper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0101] The cartridges mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any state (e.g., liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel). The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid comprising tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid comprising non-tobacco materials. Alternatively, the cartridge may include a storage section containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery unit impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery unit may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic wick. The cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery unit or in contact with one side of the liquid delivery unit. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may also include an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0102] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing 10, a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor unit 13, and / or heaters 182, 183 (e.g., Figure 1 (The heater 18). However, the components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 are not limited to... Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, those skilled in the art will understand that some constituent elements may be omitted, or new structures may be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "internal heating type" aerosol generating device for heating the inside of the aerosol generating article 2. Figure 3 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "externally heated" aerosol generating device for heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. In the following figures, details related to... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may provide an upwardly opening space for insertion of the aerosol generating article 2. In this disclosure, the upwardly opening space may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed recessed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the housing 10 to allow insertion of at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2. The depth of the insertion space may be greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 that includes the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the housing 10, and the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the housing 10. A user may inhale the aerosol by holding the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth.

[0105] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0106] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0107] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater can extend relatively far upward within the space (i.e., the insertion space) into which the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted. For example, as shown, the internally heated heater may include rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating elements, but may also include various heating elements such as tubular or plate-shaped heating elements. The internally heated heater can be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0108] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0109] For example, the resistance heater comprises a resistive material on its inner side (e.g., hollow interior or inner surface) or outer side (e.g., outer surface) and can be heated when an electric current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater can be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and can directly generate heat by receiving current from the power supply 11. Alternatively, the induction coil 181 can be omitted.

[0110] For example, in the case of an induction heating type heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of an internal heating type heater (e.g., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). In this case, the outer side of the induction coil 181 may further include a magnetic flux concentrator to improve the efficiency of induction heating. The induction heating type heater includes a sensor and can generate heat based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating type heater (e.g., the sensor) (or the heater module including it) may also be configured to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0111] According to one embodiment, heater 182 can also be a multiple heater. The multiple heaters can include a first heater and a second heater, and can be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2. The first and second heaters can be arranged side-by-side along the length direction. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, heating sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first and second heaters can also be respectively positioned corresponding to positions along the length direction of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be respectively positioned corresponding to positions along the length direction of a first portion and a second portion of an aerosol generating rod. On the other hand, when heater 182 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be respectively positioned corresponding to positions along the length direction of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be respectively positioned corresponding to positions along the length direction of a first portion and a second portion of a heater 182. Additionally, three or more heaters and / or induction coils may be included.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the sensor is disposed (or included) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can also be implemented such that the sensor included inside the aerosol generating article 2 heats up based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0113] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0114] According to one embodiment, an externally heated heater can extend relatively long upward around the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the externally heated heater can be configured to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the externally heated heater can include a tubular (e.g., cylindrical) shape with a hollow portion inside. The externally heated heater can also include a shape with a hollow portion inside and enclosing the hollow portion. In this case, the externally heated heater can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be called a film heater. The externally heated heater can be configured to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The externally heated heater can heat the outer side of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow portion.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and the following is omitted: Figure 2 To reiterate. On the other hand, in the case of an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an external heating type heater implemented by a tubular sensor, and may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., disposed externally to correspond to the length of at least a portion of the heater). Additionally, the induction coil 181 may also include a fan coil. On the other hand, when the external heating type heater is a resistance heater, heating can be achieved by current flow in a tubular resistance heater (e.g., a film heater), thus the additional induction coil 181 can be omitted. Furthermore, the exterior of the external heating type heater may also be provided with insulating material. This reduces the heat radiating outwards from the heater 183 and applied to the exterior of the housing 10.

[0116] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can be multiple heaters, with a first heater and a second heater configured to be arranged side-by-side along the length direction and respectively surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, heating sequentially or simultaneously. Alternatively, when heater 183 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters, respectively. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be positioned at locations corresponding to the length directions of a first portion and a second portion of heater 183, respectively.

[0117] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The results are different. Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 may also be included together with the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may be provided with an airflow channel for air movement. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure (e.g., a hole) that allows air to flow from the outside into the interior of the housing 10. The air flowing into the interior of the housing 10 may enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 may be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the inflowing air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0119] Figure 4 This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] Reference Figure 4 The main body 10 (e.g., housing 10) may include: sidewalls 101, 102, which extend elongatedly; a cover 103, forming one end; a base 104, forming the other end; and a door 110 for opening and closing the insertion space 43. The main body 10 may be a cylinder that extends elongatedly in one direction.

[0121] The main body 10 may include sidewalls 101 and 102 forming the outer surface. The sidewalls 101 and 102 may include curved surfaces extending circumferentially along the main body 10.

[0122] Sidewalls 101 and 102 may include a first sidewall 101. The first sidewall 101 may extend circumferentially along the body 10. The first sidewall 101 may be curved circumferentially along the body 10 and form a space inside. One side of the first sidewall 101 may be open. The cross-section of the first sidewall 101 may be a loop shape with one side open.

[0123] Sidewalls 101 and 102 may include a second sidewall 102. The second sidewall 102 may extend substantially along the length of the body 10. The second sidewall 102 may be joined to the first sidewall 101. The second sidewall 102 may be located between the two circumferential ends of the first sidewall 101 and form a surface continuous with the first sidewall 101. The second sidewall 102 may cover one side of the lateral opening of the first sidewall 101.

[0124] The main body 10 may include a cover 103 forming one end in the length direction. The cover 103 may be attached to one end in the length direction of the first sidewall 101 and one end in the length direction of the second sidewall 102.

[0125] The main body 10 may include a door 110. The door 110 may be attached to the cover 103. The door 110 can be opened and closed via a sliding mechanism to access the insertion space 43 (see reference). Figure 2 and Figure 3 Track 105 can be formed on cover 103. Door 110 can slide along track 105.

[0126] The main body 10 may include a base 104 forming the other end in the length direction. The base 104 may be attached to the other end in the length direction of the first sidewall 101 and the other end in the length direction of the second sidewall 102.

[0127] A button 106 can be provided on the main body 10 (e.g.: Figure 1 (Input section 15). Button 106 can be inserted into a hole formed on one side of the second sidewall 102.

[0128] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the conductive track 220 of a heater 18 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] Reference Figure 5 The heater 18 may include a conductive track 220. The conductive track 220 may be cylindrical. The conductive track 220 can receive power from the power source 11 and generate heat. The conductive track 220 may be referred to as a heating element. The heat generated by the conductive track 220 affects the rod 2 (see reference 11) inserted into the insertion space 43. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Heating a medium and / or humectant can generate an aerosol. The conductive track 220 can be formed by laser etching a metal film. The conductive track 220 can be made of stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited to these.

[0130] The conductive track 220 may include a heating track 221 and a connecting portion 222. The heating track 221 may include at least one track 221a, 221b, 221c, 221d connected in parallel with each other.

[0131] The first track 221a may be disposed on the outermost side of the conductive track 220 and is generally rectangular. The first track 221a may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the second track 221b. The second track 221b may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the third track 221c. The third track 221c may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the fourth track 221d.

[0132] The first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d may include at least one curved portion and are in a meandering shape. The first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d may be spaced apart from each other. One end of the first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d may be connected to each other, and the other end may also be connected to each other. In other words, the first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d may be connected in parallel.

[0133] The width Wa of the first track 221a can be substantially the same as the width Wd of the fourth track 221d. At least one of the widths Wb of the second track 221a and Wc of the third track 221c can be smaller than the width Wa of the first track 221a. As another example, the widths Wa, Wb, Wc, and Wd of the first to fourth tracks can be substantially the same.

[0134] The widths of the first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d can be greater than the intervals between adjacent tracks in the first to fourth tracks. Therefore, the heating area of ​​the conductive track 220 can be increased, and the insertion space 43 or the rod S inserted into the insertion space 43 can be uniformly heated through the conductive track 220.

[0135] The connecting portion 222 can protrude outward from one side of the heating track 221. The connecting portion 222 can be integrally formed with the heating track 221. The heating track 221 and the connecting portion 222 can be disposed on the insulator 224 covering the conductive track 220. The connecting portion 222 can include a first connecting portion 222a and a second connecting portion 222b. The first connecting portion 222a can be connected to one end of the first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, 221d, and the second connecting portion 222b can be connected to the other end of the first to fourth tracks 221a, 221b, 221c, 221d.

[0136] Electrode portion 223 can be connected to conductive track 220. Electrode portion 223 can be connected to connecting portion 222. Electrode portion 223 can be disposed at a protruding end of connecting portion 222. Electrode portion 223 can electrically connect conductive track 220 to power supply 11. Electrode portion 223 may include a first electrode portion 223a that contacts the first connecting portion 222a and a second electrode portion 223b that contacts the second connecting portion 222b. Power can be supplied to conductive track 220 through the first electrode portion 223a and the second electrode portion 223b. Electrode portion 223 can be attached to connecting portion 222 by welding. However, the method of attaching electrode portion 223 to connecting portion 222 is not limited to this.

[0137] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly structure of a heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] Reference Figure 6 The heater 18 may include a sensor 210, a conductive rail 220, and a support tube 230. The heater 18 may be referred to as a heater assembly.

[0139] The sensor 210 may be cylindrical. The sensor 210 may be located at the innermost part of the hollow heater 18. The sensor 210 may be disposed inside the conductive track 220. The sensor 210 may surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The sensor 210 may be referred to as a heat transfer element, heat conductor, heat dissipation part, or conduit. The sensor 210 may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited thereto.

[0140] Along the length of the receptor 210 or the length of the insertion space 43 (e.g., the z-direction), one end 212 and the other end 211 of the receptor 210 may be bent outward. One end 212 and the other end 211 of the receptor 210 may each have a flange shape that bends outward in the radial direction of the receptor 210. One end 212 of the receptor 210 may be referred to as the lower end or the upstream end. The other end 211 of the receptor 210 may be referred to as the upper end or the downstream end.

[0141] Therefore, the flange shape provided at both ends of the receptor 210 can improve the strength of the receptor 210 and prevent the receptor 210 from deforming during the heating or cooling process.

[0142] The conductive track 220 may be cylindrical. The conductive track 220 may be disposed outside the receptor 210. The conductive track 220 may surround at least a portion of the receptor 210. Along the length of the insertion space 43, the conductive track 220 may be aligned with the downstream end 211 of the receptor 210. For example, the upper end or downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 may contact the downstream end 211 of the receptor 210, which protrudes in a flange shape. The length Lh of the conductive track 220 may be shorter than the length Ls of the receptor 210. The lower end or upstream end 220b of the conductive track 220 may be spaced upward from the upstream end 212 of the receptor 210.

[0143] An insulator 224 may be disposed on one side of the conductive track 220. The insulator 224 may be disposed inside and / or outside the conductive track 220 and has a cylindrical shape. The insulator 224 may cover the conductive track 220. In the length direction of the insertion space 43, the insulator 224 may extend upward and downward beyond the conductive track 220. In the radial direction (e.g., the x-direction or the y-direction) of the insertion space 43, the insulator 224 may be disposed between the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220.

[0144] Insulator 224 may be formed of a material that is flexible and heat-resistant. Insulator 224 may include, but is not limited to, polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and may include other materials that are elastic, heat-resistant and electrically insulating.

[0145] The support tube 230 may be cylindrical. The support tube 230 may be disposed outside the conductive track 220. The support tube 230 may surround at least a portion of the outer side of the conductive track 220. Along the length of the insertion space 43, the support tube 230 may be disposed between the two ends of the conductive track 220. The length of the support tube 230 may be shorter than the lengths of the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220.

[0146] The support tube 230 may be formed of a flexible and heat-resistant material. The support tube 230 may include at least one of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0147] The support tube 230 may include multiple layers 231, 232 surrounding the outer side of the conductive track 220. For example, the support tube 230 may include: a first layer 231 in contact with the outer side of the conductive track 220; and a second layer 232 in contact with the first layer 231 and surrounding the outer side of the first layer 231. The first layer 231 and the second layer 232 may have approximately the same thickness.

[0148] The support tube 230 may include a heat-shrinkable material. During the manufacture of the heater 18, the support tube 230 may be configured to surround the outer side of the conductive track 200 and may be heated and shrunken at a set temperature to fit snugly against the outer side of the conductive track 200.

[0149] Even when the support tube 230 is in the contracted state and has the same thickness, the support tube 230 formed by multiple layers can be compressed more uniformly on the outside of the conductive track 220 compared to the support tube 230 formed by a single layer. In addition, the heat-shrinkable multiple layers with relatively thinner layers may be easier to process compared to a single layer with a relatively thick thickness.

[0150] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a rod according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0151] Reference Figure 7The rod 2 may include an aerosol substrate portion 510. The rod 2 may include a medium portion 520. The aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520 may be referred to as a tobacco rod. The rod 2 may include a cooling portion 530. The rod 2 may include a filter portion 540. The rod 2 may be referred to as an aerosol generating article. The rod 2 may include wrapping paper 550 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520, the cooling portion 530, and / or the filter portion 540. Figure 7 In this process, the packaging paper 550 may include individual packaging papers that respectively surround the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540 and / or wrap the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540 surrounded by individual packaging papers into an outer skin.

[0152] The aerosol substrate section 510 can be a portion of pulp-based paper containing a humectant and formed into a predetermined shape. The humectant (substrate) included in the aerosol substrate section 510 may include propylene glycol, glycerin, etc. For example, the humectant in the aerosol substrate section 510 may include propylene glycol and glycerin in a certain weight proportion relative to the weight of the base paper. When the rod 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1 and heated to a certain temperature or higher by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated from the aerosol substrate section 510.

[0153] The medium section 520 may include one of a sheet, a strand, or shredded tobacco. The medium section 520 may be the portion that generates nicotine to provide a smoking experience to the user. When the temperature of the medium included in the medium section 520 rises above a certain temperature, nicotine vapor can be generated from the medium section 520. When the rod 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus 1, at least a portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 and at least a portion of the medium section 520 may be opposite to the heater 18. For example, an upper or downstream portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 and a lower or upstream portion of the medium section 520 may be opposite to the heater 18.

[0154] The portions of the aerosol substrate 510 and the medium 520 opposite to the heater 18 can be heated by the heater 18. When at least a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 containing the humectant is heated by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated. When at least a portion of the medium 520 containing the medium is heated by the heater 18, nicotine vapor can be generated. By configuring the rod 2 such that the length ratio of a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 and a portion of the medium 520 opposite to the heater 18 is different, the ratio of the generated humectant vapor to the nicotine vapor can be appropriately adjusted.

[0155] The dielectric portion 520 may be longer than the aerosol substrate portion 510. The length L2 of the dielectric portion 520 may be 1.1 to 1.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510. For example, the length L2 of the dielectric portion 520 may be 11 mm to 13 mm, and the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be 9 mm to 11 mm.

[0156] When the length L2 of the medium portion 520 is shorter than 1.1 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 may not contain a relatively sufficient amount of medium. Therefore, the number of times a user can draw through the rod 2 can be reduced to a certain extent (e.g., 13 times) or less. When the length L2 of the medium portion 520 is longer than 1.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not contain a relatively sufficient amount of humectant. Therefore, the number of times a user can draw through the rod 2 can be reduced to a certain extent. In addition, since the lengths of the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220 need to be increased corresponding to the length L2 of the medium portion 520, the size of the heater 18 may increase and the power consumption may increase.

[0157] The length of the portion of the dielectric section 520 opposite to the heater 18 can be longer than the length of the portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 opposite to the heater 18. The length of the portion of the dielectric section 520 opposite to the heater 18 can be more than half the overall length of the dielectric section 520.

[0158] The cooling section 530 can be made into a tubular filter containing a predetermined weight of plasticizer. The humectant vapor and nicotine vapor generated by the aerosol substrate section 510 and the medium section 520 can mix with each other and be aerosolized, and can be cooled as they pass through the cooling section 530. According to one embodiment, unlike the aerosol substrate section 510, the medium section 520, and the filter section 540, the cooling section 530 may not be individually wrapped in packaging paper.

[0159] The filter section 540 can be a cellulose acetate filter tip. The filter section 540 can be a cylindrical rod or a tubular shape including a hollow interior. For example, when the filter section 540 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments can be manufactured in different shapes. The filter section 540 can also be configured to produce fragrance. As an example, a fragrance liquid can be sprayed into the filter section 540, and additional fibers coated with the fragrance liquid can be inserted into the interior of the filter section 540.

[0160] Additionally, the filter section 540 may include at least one capsule. Here, the capsule may also perform the function of generating fragrance. For example, the capsule may be a structure containing a fragrance-containing liquid encapsulated by a membrane, and may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0161] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, viewed from the side. Figure 8 Show along Figure 4 The cross section of the main body is taken by line AA.

[0162] Reference Figure 8 The heater 18 may surround the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be cylindrical with a hollow interior. At least a portion of the insertion space 43 may be formed inside the heater 18.

[0163] The main housing 111 can be disposed inside the main body 10. The main housing 111 can support the main body 10 inside the main body 10. At least a portion of the main housing 111 can be engaged with or in contact with the inner surface of the main body 10. The main housing 111 can house the heater 18 inside.

[0164] Heater 18 can be combined with heater housings 241, 242. Heater 18 and heater housings 241, 242 can be accommodated within the interior space of the main housing 111. Heater housings 241, 242 can surround the exterior of heater 18. Heater housings 241, 242 can include a first heater housing 241 and a second heater housing 242. The first heater housing 241 can surround a portion of the side of heater 18. The second heater housing 242 can surround the remaining portion of the side of heater 18. For example, the first heater housing 241 can surround the upper side of heater 18, and the second heater housing 242 can surround the lower side of heater 18.

[0165] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include at least one of a heat insulation body 400 and a heat sink 300. The heat insulation body 400 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The heat insulation body 400 may surround the exterior of the heater 18 inside the main body 10. The heat insulation body 400 may insulate the heater 18. The upper part of the heat insulation body 400 may be open. A base plate may be formed in the lower part of the heat insulation body 400, and a hole may be formed in a portion of the base plate. The heat insulation body 400 may be configured to surround the sides and lower part of the heater 18. The heat insulation body 400 may include two layers. An inner layer and an outer layer may be spaced apart from each other and form a space VS inside. The space VS formed by the layers of the heat insulation body 400 may be sealed to the outside. The space VS formed by the layers of the heat insulation body 400 may be in a vacuum state. The heat insulation body 400 may be referred to as a vacuum tube.

[0166] Therefore, the heat generated by the heater 18 can be minimized from the outer peripheral surface of the body 10 by the heat insulation 400. Even if the heater 18 heats up and rises to a high temperature, the heat insulation 400 can prevent the high temperature heat from being transferred to the body of the user holding the body 10.

[0167] Inflow channels P1 and P2 can be formed inside the main body housing 111. Inflow channels P1 and P2 can communicate with the outside of the main body 10 and the insertion space 43. Inflow channels P1 and P2 can communicate with the insertion space 43 through inflow holes 2424 formed in the second heater housing 242.

[0168] The inflow channels P1 and P2 may include a first channel P1 and a second channel P2. The second channel P2 may communicate with the insertion space 43. The second channel P2 may extend from the lower side of the insertion space 43 in a direction intersecting the length direction of the insertion space 43. The first channel P1 may communicate with the second channel P2. The first channel P1 may extend from one end of the second channel P2 along the length direction of the insertion space 43. The first channel P1 may communicate with the outside of the main body housing 111. External air from the aerosol generating device 1 may flow into the main body 10 through the gap provided in the main body 10, pass through the first channel P1 and the second channel P2, and flow into the interior of the insertion space 43 through the inflow hole 2424. In other words, the direction from the lower part to the upper part of the insertion space 43 can be defined as the direction from the upstream side to the downstream side.

[0169] Rod 2 can be inserted into insertion space 43. Rod 2 can be inserted into snap-fit ​​flange 2421 formed at the lower end of insertion space 43. Rod 2 can be inserted into insertion space 43 from one end of aerosol substrate portion 510. With rod 2 inserted into insertion space 43, aerosol substrate portion 510, medium portion 520, cooling portion 530 and filter portion 540 can be sequentially arranged in insertion space 43 from the lower or upper side.

[0170] The suction sensor 132 can be configured on one side of the inflow channels P1 and P2. The suction sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure or changes in internal pressure of the inflow channels P1 and P2. The suction sensor 132 can also output a signal corresponding to the user's suction. The suction sensor 132 can communicate with the inflow channels P1 and P2 and the insertion space 43. The suction sensor 132 can be configured to face the inflow channels P1 and P2. In the radial direction of the insertion space 43, the suction sensor 312 can be configured on the outside of the heat insulation body 400.

[0171] Inflow channels P1 and P2 can be configured inside the main housing 111, adjacent to the heater 18. The first channel P1 can be configured adjacent to the heater housings 241 and 242. At least a portion of the inflow channels P1 and P2 can be configured inside the heat insulation body 400. The heat insulation body 400 can surround at least a portion of the outer side of the inflow channels P1 and P2.

[0172] The external air flowing in through the inflow channels P1 and P2 can be heated by the heat generated by the heater 18. The heated external air in the inflow channels P1 and P2 can flow into the insertion space 43 and flow into the interior of the rod 2 housed in the insertion space 43.

[0173] As described above, the inflow channels P1 and P2 are arranged inside the insulation 400, thereby effectively heating the external air flowing into the insertion space 43.

[0174] Additionally, the suction sensor 132 can be configured on the outside of the heat insulation 400, thereby minimizing the heating of the suction sensor 132 due to the heat generated by the heater 18.

[0175] At least one heat sink 300 may be disposed inside the main body 10. The heat sink 300 may surround the exterior of the main body housing 111 coupled to the main body 10 from inside the main body 10. The heat sink 300 may surround at least a portion of the exterior of the heater 18 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. The heat sink 300 may extend longer than the heater 18 in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43. The heat sink 300 may comprise a material with excellent heat absorption and dissipation capabilities. For example, the heat sink 300 may comprise at least one of graphite, metal compounds, and aerosols.

[0176] Therefore, the heat generated by the heater 18 is minimized to the outer peripheral surface of the body 10 by the heat insulation 400, and even if a portion of the heat is transferred to the body 10, the transferred heat can be evenly diffused to a larger area of ​​the body 10 by the heat sink 300.

[0177] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the state in which a rod is inserted into a heater according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0178] Reference Figure 9 Rod 2 can be inserted into insertion space 43. The upstream end of rod 2 can be supported by the snap-fit ​​flange 2421 of insertion space 43. The downstream end of rod 2 can be exposed to the outside of insertion space 43. Aerosol substrate portion 510 and medium portion 520 of rod 2 can be accommodated within insertion space 43. At least a portion of cooling portion 530 of rod 2 can be accommodated within insertion space 43.

[0179] One end of the conductive track 220 can be aligned with one end of the dielectric portion 520. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or lower end 220a of the conductive track 220 can be aligned with the upper or lower end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or lower end 220a of the conductive track 220 can be configured at the same height as the upper or lower end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43.

[0180] One end of the receptor 210 can be aligned with one end of the conductive track 220 or one end of the dielectric portion 520. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or lower end 211 of the receptor 210 can be aligned with the upper or lower end 220a of the conductive track 220 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or lower end 211 of the receptor 210 can be aligned with the upper or lower end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43.

[0181] The receptor 210 and the conductive track 220 can surround the outer side of the dielectric portion 520 of the rod 2. In the length direction of the insertion space 43, the length Ls of the receptor 210 and the length Lh of the conductive track 220 can be longer than the length L2 of the dielectric portion 520. The outer surface of the dielectric portion 520 can be completely surrounded by the receptor 210 or the conductive track 220.

[0182] Figure 10 This is a graph comparing the conductive track of one embodiment of the present disclosure with the heating temperature according to the sensor configuration structure. Figure 10 In each graph, the heating temperature of the downstream end of the dielectric section of the rod is shown, depending on the degree of separation between the downstream end of the conductive track and the downstream end of the sensor. Each graph shows the results with the downstream ends of the dielectric section of the rod and the sensor aligned.

[0183] Refer to together Figure 9 and Figure 10 When the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is aligned with the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210, as the conductive track 220 heats up, the downstream end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 of the rod 2 rises to a first temperature T1. Figure 10 (of 1010).

[0184] Conversely, when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is positioned 2 mm below or upstream of the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210, as the conductive track 220 heats up, the downstream end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 of the rod 2 rises to a second temperature T2 lower than the first temperature T1. Figure 10 (1020).

[0185] Furthermore, when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is positioned 4 mm below or upstream of the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210, as the conductive track 220 heats up, the downstream end 521 of the dielectric portion 520 of the rod 2 rises to a third temperature T3 that is lower than the second temperature T2. Figure 10 (1030).

[0186] Compared to the case where the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210 are not aligned, the dielectric portion 520 can be heated at a higher temperature when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210 are aligned.

[0187] In this case, relatively less electricity is required to heat the medium section 520 to the set temperature, and the heat transfer efficiency or heating efficiency can be relatively increased. In addition, since the heat transferred to the outside of the conductive track 220 is relatively small, the components arranged adjacent to the heater 18 can operate more stably, and the external temperature of the device 1 can be relatively reduced.

[0188] Figure 11 This is a graph comparing the amount of nicotine vapor with the amount of conductive track according to an embodiment of this disclosure and the configuration of the dielectric section. Figure 11 In each graph, the amount of nicotine vapor produced during each suction depends on the degree of separation between the downstream end of the conductive track and the downstream end of the dielectric section. Each graph shows the results with the dielectric section of the rod and the downstream end of the receptor aligned.

[0189] Refer to together Figure 9 and Figure 11 When the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is aligned with the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction increases from the first suction to the third suction, while after the third suction, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction remains at a roughly constant level. Figure 11 (1110).

[0190] Conversely, when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is positioned 2 mm below or upstream of the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction increases from the first suction to the seventh suction, while after the seventh suction, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction remains at a substantially constant level. Figure 11 (1120). It can be confirmed that, compared with the case where the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520 are aligned, the amount of nicotine vapor generated from the first suction to the seventh suction is relatively small.

[0191] Furthermore, when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is positioned 4 mm below or upstream of the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction increases from the first suction to the ninth suction, while after the ninth suction, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction remains at a substantially constant level. Figure 11 (1130). It can be confirmed that, compared with the case where the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520 are aligned, the amount of nicotine vapor generated from the first suction to the ninth suction is relatively small.

[0192] Compared to the case where the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520 are not aligned, when the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 and the downstream end 521 of the dielectric section 520 are aligned, the deviation in the amount of nicotine vapor generated during each suction can be reduced. Furthermore, the amount of nicotine vapor generated during the initial suction can be relatively greater.

[0193] In this case, user satisfaction can be higher. Additionally, because the amount of nicotine vapor produced with each inhalation varies, the perceived foreignness can be reduced.

[0194] Refer again Figure 9 The receptor 210 can extend longer than the conductive track 220. The length Ls of the receptor 210, defined in the length direction of the insertion space 43, can be longer than the length Lh of the conductive track 220. In other words, the downstream end 211 of the receptor 210 is aligned with the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220, and the upstream end 212 of the receptor 210 can be positioned lower or upstream than the upstream end 220b of the conductive track 220.

[0195] The length Lh of the conductive track 220 can be 0.7 to 0.9 times the length Ls of the receptor 210. For example, the length Ls of the receptor 210 can be 16.5 mm to 18.5 mm, and the length Lh of the conductive track 220 can be 13 mm to 15 mm.

[0196] When the length Lh of the conductive track 220 is less than 0.7 times the length Ls of the sensor 210, heat may not be sufficiently transferred to the portion of the sensor 210 that is not in contact with the conductive track 220. Consequently, the aerosol substrate portion 510 disposed in this portion may not be heated to a suitable temperature for generating humectant vapor. Therefore, the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not generate a sufficient amount of humectant vapor.

[0197] When the length Lh of the conductive track 220 is more than 0.9 times the length Ls of the sensor 210, heat may be excessively transferred to the portion of the sensor 210 that is not in contact with the conductive track 220. As a result, the aerosol substrate portion 510 disposed in this portion may be heated to a temperature excessively higher than the suitable temperature for generating humectant vapor. Therefore, the heating efficiency may be reduced.

[0198] The receptor 210 may surround the outer side of the medium portion 520 of the rod 2 and at least a portion of the outer side of the aerosol substrate portion 510. In the length direction of the insertion space 43, the length Ls of the receptor 210 may be shorter than the sum of the length L2 of the medium portion 520 and the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510. A portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be surrounded by the receptor 210. An upper portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be surrounded by the receptor 210, while a lower portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not be surrounded by the receptor 210. An upper portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may contact the receptor 210, while a lower portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not contact the receptor 210.

[0199] For example, the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 can be 0.5 to 0.7 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510. For example, the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 can be 0.55 to 0.65 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0200] The sensor 210 can transfer the heat generated by the conductive track 220 to the rod 2. The sensor 210 can also transfer the heat generated by the conductive track 220 to the dielectric portion 520 and the aerosol substrate portion 510 of the rod 2.

[0201] Figure 12This is a graph comparing the amount of humectant vapor in a sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure with that in a humectant vapor configuration based on an aerosol substrate portion. Figure 12 In the diagram, each graph shows the amount of nicotine vapor produced per inhalation, based on the length of the receptor surrounding the aerosol substrate. Each graph shows the results with the media portion of the rod and the downstream end of the receptor aligned.

[0202] Refer to together Figure 9 and Figure 12 When the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate 510 is approximately 0.6 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate 510, the amount of humectant vapor gradually increases from the first suction to the seventh suction. After the seventh suction, the amount of humectant vapor generated during each suction remains at a roughly constant level. Figure 12 (1210).

[0203] Conversely, when the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate 510 is approximately 0.4 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate 510, the amount of humectant vapor gradually increases from the first to the sixth suction, and after the sixth suction, the amount of humectant vapor generated during each suction gradually decreases. Figure 12 (1220). It can be confirmed that, compared to the case where the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is about 0.6 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the amount of humectant vapor can increase relatively quickly in the initial aspiration and the amount of humectant vapor can decrease relatively quickly in the later aspiration.

[0204] Furthermore, when the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is approximately 0.8 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the amount of humectant vapor hardly increases from the first to the fourth suction. After the fourth suction, the amount of humectant vapor generated during each suction gradually increases. Figure 12 (1220). It can be confirmed that, compared to the case where the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is about 0.6 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the amount of humectant vapor can be relatively less in the initial aspiration, and the amount of humectant vapor increases relatively quickly in the later aspiration.

[0205] Compared to when the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is 0.4 or 0.8 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, when the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is approximately 0.6 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, the deviation in the amount of humectant vapor generated during the initial and later stages of suction can be relatively small.

[0206] In this case, user satisfaction can be higher. Additionally, because the amount of moisturizing vapor produced each time is different, the perceived foreign body sensation can be reduced.

[0207] Refer again Figure 9 The conductive track 220 may surround the outer side of the dielectric portion 520 of the rod 2 and at least a portion of the outer side of the aerosol substrate portion 510. In the length direction of the insertion space 43, the length Lh of the conductive track 220 may be shorter than the sum of the length L2 of the dielectric portion 520 and the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510. A portion of the outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be surrounded by the conductive track 220. A portion of the upper outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be surrounded by the conductive track 220, while a portion of the lower outer surface of the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not be surrounded by the conductive track 220.

[0208] For example, the length Lh1 of the portion of the conductive track 220 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 can be 0.1 to 0.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510. For example, the length Lh1 of the portion of the conductive track 220 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 can be 0.15 to 0.25 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0209] When powered, the conductive track 220 generates heat, which can be transferred to the rod 2 via the sensor 210. The conductive track 220 can then transfer heat to the dielectric portion 520 and the aerosol substrate portion 510 of the rod 2 via the sensor 210.

[0210] When the length Lh1 of the portion of the conductive track 220 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is less than 0.1 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, sufficient heat may not be transferred to the aerosol substrate portion 510 through the sensor 210, and thus the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not be heated to a suitable temperature for generating humectant vapor. Therefore, the aerosol substrate portion 510 may not generate a sufficient amount of humectant vapor.

[0211] When the length Lh1 of the portion of the conductive track 220 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 is longer than 0.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510, heat may be excessively transferred to the aerosol substrate portion 510 through the sensor 210, thereby potentially heating the aerosol substrate portion 510 to a temperature excessively higher than the suitable temperature for generating humectant vapor. Therefore, heating efficiency may decrease.

[0212] The cooling section 530 can be disposed above or downstream of the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220. One end of the cooling section 530 can be aligned with one end of the sensor 210 or one end of the conductive track 220. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 can be aligned with the lower or upstream end of the cooling section 530 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. For example, with the rod 2 accommodated in the insertion space 43, the upper or downstream end 211 of the sensor 210 can be aligned with the lower or upstream end of the cooling section 530 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43. In other words, the cooling section 530 may not be surrounded by the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220.

[0213] Therefore, the humectant vapor and nicotine vapor generated from the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520 can pass through the cooling portion 530 and be cooled. In addition, the cooling portion 530 can be prevented from deforming due to the heat transferred through the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220.

[0214] As described above, at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure has a structure in which the downstream end of the conductive track is aligned with the downstream end of the medium portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space, thereby reducing the deviation in the amount of vapor generated each time it is drawn in.

[0215] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a structure is provided in which the downstream end of the sensor is aligned with the downstream end of the conductive track, thereby enabling the heating temperature of the medium to be increased and the heat transfer efficiency to be improved.

[0216] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the sensor has a structure that surrounds a medium portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion, thereby reducing the deviation in the amount of vapor generated during each suction.

[0217] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, a structure is provided in which conductive tracks surround a dielectric portion of a rod inserted into an insertion space and a portion of an aerosol substrate portion, thereby increasing the amount of vapor generated.

[0218] Reference Figures 1 to 12According to one aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include: a main body 10, providing an insertion space 43 extending in an elongated shape; a rod 2, in which a medium portion 520 is disposed and inserted into the insertion space 43; a sensor 210, surrounding the insertion space 43 and extending along the length direction of the insertion space 43; and a conductive track 220, surrounding the sensor 210 and heating the sensor 210 and the insertion space 43; a downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 is aligned in the radial direction of the insertion space 43 with a downstream end 521 of the medium portion 520 of the rod 2 inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0219] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the downstream end 220a of the conductive track 220 may be aligned with the downstream end 211 of the sensor 210 in the radial direction of the insertion space 43.

[0220] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length Ls of the receptor 210 defined in the length direction of the insertion space 43 may be longer than the length Lh of the conductive track 220.

[0221] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length Lh of the conductive track 220 may be 0.7 to 0.9 times the length Ls of the sensor 210.

[0222] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod 2 includes an aerosol substrate portion 510 disposed upstream of the medium portion 520, the receptor 210 may extend longer than the medium portion 520 in the length direction of the insertion space 43, and the receptor 210 surrounds at least a portion of the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520.

[0223] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length Ls of the sensor 210 may be shorter than the sum of the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the length L2 of the medium portion 520.

[0224] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length Ls1 of the portion of the receptor 210 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be 0.5 to 0.7 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0225] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod 2 includes an aerosol substrate portion 510 disposed on the upstream side of the medium portion 520, the conductive track 220 extends longer than the medium portion 520 in the length direction of the insertion space 43, and the conductive track 220 surrounds at least a portion of the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520.

[0226] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length Lh1 of the portion of the conductive track 220 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510 may be 0.1 to 0.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0227] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the rod 2 may include an aerosol substrate portion 510 disposed on the upstream side of the medium portion 520 and a cooling portion 530 disposed on the downstream side of the medium portion 520. In the length direction of the insertion space 43, the cooling portion 530 of the rod 2 inserted into the insertion space 43 may be disposed on the downstream side of the sensor 210 and the conductive track 220.

[0228] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length L2 of the medium portion 520 may be longer than the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0229] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the length L2 of the medium portion 520 may be 1.1 to 1.3 times the length L1 of the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0230] The embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above are not exclusive to or different from each other. The configurations or functions of each of the embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure described above can be used together or combined.

[0231] For example, this means that structure A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or the accompanying drawings can be combined with structure B illustrated in other embodiments and / or the accompanying drawings. That is, it means that even if the combination between structures is not directly described, it is assumed that the combination can be made unless it is explicitly stated that the combination is not possible.

[0232] The detailed description above should not be construed as limiting in any way, but should be regarded as exemplary. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: The main body provides an insertion space that extends in a long strip. A rod, having a medium portion disposed inside it and inserted into the insertion space. Receptors, extending around the insertion space and along the length of the insertion space, and Conductive tracks surround the receptor and heat the receptor and the insertion space; One downstream end of the conductive track is aligned with one downstream end of the medium portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space in the radial direction of the insertion space.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, One downstream end of the conductive track is aligned with one downstream end of the sensor in the radial direction of the insertion space.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The length of the receptor, defined in the length direction of the insertion space, is longer than the length of the conductive track.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The length of the conductive track is 0.7 to 0.9 times the length of the sensor.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rod includes an aerosol substrate portion disposed on the upstream side of the medium portion. It extends longer than the medium portion in the length direction of the insertion space and surrounds at least a portion of the aerosol substrate portion and the medium portion.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The length of the sensor is shorter than the sum of the length of the aerosol substrate portion and the length of the medium portion.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The length of the portion of the receptor surrounding the aerosol substrate is 0.5 to 0.7 times the length of the aerosol substrate.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rod includes an aerosol substrate portion disposed on the upstream side of the medium portion. The conductive track extends longer than the dielectric portion in the length direction of the insertion space, and the conductive track surrounds at least a portion of the aerosol substrate portion and the dielectric portion.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The length of the portion of the conductive track surrounding the aerosol substrate portion is 0.1 to 0.3 times the length of the aerosol substrate portion.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rod includes an aerosol substrate portion disposed on the upstream side of the medium portion and a cooling portion disposed on the downstream side of the medium portion. Along the length of the insertion space, the cooling portion of the rod inserted into the insertion space is disposed downstream of the sensor and the conductive track.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The length of the medium portion is longer than the length of the aerosol substrate portion.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The length of the medium portion is 1.1 to 1.3 times the length of the aerosol substrate portion.

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