Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing formed to be elongated; a heater module disposed in an internal space in the housing and including a heater extending in a length direction of the housing; and an extractor surrounding a portion of a side surface of the heater. The heater module includes a bottom portion on which the heater is disposed, and a pair of inner walls protruding from the bottom portion and opposed to each other with respect to the heater. The extractor includes a lower portion facing the bottom and through which the heater passes, and a pair of side walls protruding from the lower portion, opposed to each other with respect to the heater, and alternately disposed with the pair of inner walls. The lower portion is spaced apart from the bottom portion and the heater to form an airflow path.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] An aerosol-generating device is a device that extracts a specific component from a medium or a substance by forming an aerosol. The medium can include a multi-component substance. The substance included in the medium can be a multi-component flavoring substance. For example, the substance included in the medium can include a nicotine component, a vanilla component, and / or a coffee component.

[0003] Recently, various researches on aerosol-generating devices have been conducted. In particular, various researches on cleaning and maintenance of aerosol-generating devices have been conducted. SUMMARY

[0004] TECHNICAL PROBLEM The disclosure aims to solve the above and other problems.

[0005] Another object of the disclosure is to provide an aerosol-generating device that is easy to clean and maintain.

[0006] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide a coupling structure between a heater module and an extractor that provides an insertion space for an aerosol-generating article.

[0007] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide an airflow path toward an aerosol-generating article.

[0008] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide a structure that improves moldability and strength of a heater module and an extractor.

[0009] Still another object of the disclosure is to provide a structure configured to enable easy removal of remaining cut tobacco from an extractor.

[0010] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a structure that prevents a user's fingers from contacting a heater (induction heating element) when the user holds a heater module.

[0011] TECHNICAL SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM According to an aspect of the present disclosure, to achieve the above object and other objects, there is provided an aerosol generating device including a housing formed to be elongated, a heater module disposed in an inner space in the housing and including a heater extending in a length direction of the housing, and an extractor surrounding a portion of a side surface of the heater, wherein the heater module includes a bottom on which the heater is disposed, and a pair of inner walls protruding from the bottom, the pair of inner walls being opposite to each other with respect to the heater, the extractor includes a lower portion facing the bottom through which the heater passes, and a pair of side walls protruding from the lower portion, the pair of side walls being opposite to each other with respect to the heater and being disposed alternately with the pair of inner walls, and the lower portion is spaced apart from the bottom and the heater to form an air flow path.

[0012] Advantages of the Invention As is readily understood from the above description, according to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device that is easy to clean and maintain.

[0013] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a structure of a combination between a heater module and an extractor, which provides an insertion space for an aerosol generating article.

[0014] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided an air flow path toward an aerosol generating article.

[0015] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a structure that improves moldability and strength of a heater module and an extractor.

[0016] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a structure configured to enable easy removal of remaining cut tobacco from an extractor.

[0017] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, there is provided a structure that prevents a user's finger from touching a heater (induction heating element) when the user holds a heater module.

[0018] Other applications of the present disclosure will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description. However, because various changes and modifications will be suggested themselves to those skilled in the art, it is intended that the detailed description and specific embodiments not be limiting but merely illustrative of the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 shows an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a heater module according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater module according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an extractor according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an extractor according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a side view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 18 This is an enlarged view of the extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the reference numerals, the same or similar components will be assigned the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted. Similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components in the description of the drawings.

[0036] The suffixes “module” and “unit” used in the following description for the purpose of drafting the specification are used interchangeably or for convenience only, and do not inherently have different meanings or functions. Furthermore, the suffixes “module” or “unit” can include units implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and can be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A “module” or “unit” can be a component that is integrally formed or the smallest unit or part of said component that performs one or more functions. For example, a “module” or “unit” can be implemented as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0037] Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of relevant well-known technologies will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the spirit of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for easy understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and even substitutions included within the scope of the concepts and techniques of this disclosure.

[0038] Terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" can be used to describe multiple constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The above terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one constituent element from other constituent elements.

[0039] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or directly coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0040] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0041] Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in software that includes one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory 17) readable by a machine (e.g., aerosol generating apparatus 1). 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 stored instructions from the storage medium and execute that instruction. This enables the machine to operate in a manner that performs 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 storage medium readable by the machine can be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between semi-permanent and temporary storage of data in the storage medium.

[0042] In this disclosure, the orientation of the aerosol generating device 1 can be defined using a Cartesian coordinate system as a reference. The x-axis direction in the Cartesian coordinate system 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.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0044] 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, those skilled in the art will understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating apparatus 1, certain components may be omitted. Figure 1 The shown components may include some of the constituent elements, or new constituent elements may be added.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit 13 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 1 or the state around the aerosol generating device 1, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 12. For example, the sensor unit 13 may include a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a reuse sensor, an overly moist sensor, a cigarette identification sensor, a cartridge sensor, a cap sensor, and / or a motion sensor. In addition, the sensor unit 13 may also include various sensors such as a liquid level sensor for sensing the remaining liquid in the cartridge and a water immersion sensor for sensing water immersion in the aerosol generating device 1.

[0046] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which heaters 18 and 24 are heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing 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.

[0047] 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 the 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 the heaters 18 and 24 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0048] 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 aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0049] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor can be attached to a surface of the power supply 11 (e.g., a battery) and / or mounted on a surface of a printed circuit board. As an example, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a power protection circuit (PCM), and the temperature sensor can be arranged adjacent to the power supply 11 together with the power protection circuit.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor may also be arranged inside the housing (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 1 to sense the temperature inside the housing (not shown).

[0051] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0052] 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 aforementioned signal corresponding to the internal pressure. The internal pressure of the aerosol generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gas flow channel. The suction sensor may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1 corresponding to the gas flow channel.

[0053] As another example, the suction sensor may include a temperature sensor. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the airflow channel, the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), heaters 18, 24, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0054] As another example, the suction sensor may include both a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. In this case, the temperature sensor can measure the temperature used to correct the internal pressure measured by the pressure sensor. As an 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 can receive the signals and correct the signal corresponding to the internal pressure based on the signal corresponding to the temperature.

[0055] As another example, the suction sensor may include a capacitive sensor. In this disclosure, a capacitive sensor may also be referred to as a cap sensor or capacitive sensor. When a user performs suction, temperature changes and / or aerosol flow may occur within the insertion space of the aerosol-generating article, thereby potentially changing the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0056] The suction sensor is not limited to the examples above and can be implemented by a variety of sensors used to sense a user's suction.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. The insertion sensing sensor may be disposed around the periphery of the insertion space. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor may also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0058] As an example, the insertion sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor, and the at least one conductor may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When an 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 output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0059] As another example, the insertion sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor may include at least one coil, and the at least one coil may be arranged adjacent to the insertion space. When the aerosol generating article (e.g., a wrapper of the aerosol generating article) includes a conductor, a change in the magnetic field may be generated around the coil through which the current flows when the aerosol generating article is inserted into or removed from the insertion space. The control unit 12 may sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article including the conductor based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current). Alternatively, an inductive heating element (SUS) may also be included in the aerosol generating article (e.g., the dielectric portion of the aerosol generating article). Even in this case, the magnetic field around the coil may change based on the insertion or removal of the heating element or the like in the insertion space, and the control unit 12 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article based on the current characteristics of the inductive sensor.

[0060] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above, and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors) used to sense the insertion and / or removal of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the insertion sensing sensor can also include any combination of the examples described above. According to one embodiment, the insertion sensing sensor may also include a switch, etc., for sensing pressure generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0061] According to one embodiment, a reuse sensing sensor can detect whether an aerosol-generating article has been reused. As an example, the reuse sensing sensor can be a color sensor for sensing the color of the aerosol-generating article. If a user uses the aerosol-generating article, the color of a portion of the outer casing of the aerosol-generating article 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 outer casing based on the light reflected from it. If a color change is detected in a portion of the outer casing, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space has been used.

[0062] According to one embodiment, an over-humidity sensing sensor can sense whether an aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state. For example, the over-humidity sensing sensor may include a capacitive sensor. The capacitive sensor may include at least one conductor arranged adjacent to the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is in an over-humid state based on the level of a signal corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., output from the capacitive sensor. As an example, the control unit 12 can confirm the level range that the signal level falls into according to a lookup table, and determine the moisture content of the aerosol-generating article based on the confirmed level range.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the cigarette identification sensor can sense whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or the type of aerosol-generating article.

[0064] As an example, a cigarette identification sensor may include a light sensor for sensing an identification substance (or identification mark) located on the outer surface (e.g., packaging component) of an aerosol-generating article. The light sensor may illuminate the identification substance (or identification mark) of the aerosol-generating article and sense 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.

[0065] As another example, the cigarette identification sensor may include a capacitive sensor. Depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space, the dielectric constant inside the insertion space may vary. The control unit 12 can detect whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on a signal output from the capacitive sensor corresponding to the dielectric constant, etc., inside the insertion space.

[0066] As another example, a cigarette identification sensor may include an inductive sensor. When the packaging 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 sensed by the inductive sensor (e.g., frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc.) may vary depending on the type of aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space. The control unit 12 can detect whether the inserted aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or its type based on the characteristics of the current output from or sensed by the inductive sensor.

[0067] Cigarette identification sensors are not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented using various sensors for sensing whether an aerosol-generating article is genuine and / or for sensing the type of aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, cigarette identification sensors can also include any combination of the examples described above.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the cartridge sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cartridge. For example, the cartridge sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a Hall effect sensor (Hall IC), and / or an optical sensor.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the cap sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of the cap. For example, the cap sensing sensor may include an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, a contact sensor, a Hall effect sensor (HAL IC), and / or an optical sensor. The cap may include a structure that covers at least a portion of a cartridge mounted or inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or covers at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device 1. If the cap is installed in or removed from the housing, the cap sensing sensor can output a signal corresponding to the installation or removal, and the control unit 12 can sense the installation or removal of the cap based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the motion sensing sensor is capable of sensing the motion of the aerosol generating device 1. The motion sensing sensor can be implemented by at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0071] 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)), or a proximity sensor. Since a person skilled in the art can intuitively infer the function of each sensor from its name, detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0072] 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 haptic 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., abnormal object detected). The display can visually provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the display may include a light-emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), etc. If the display includes a touchpad, the display can also be used as an input unit 15. The haptic unit can tactilely provide the user with information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the tactile part may include a vibrating motor, a piezoelectric element, an electrical stimulation device, etc. The sound output part can provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1 in an auditory manner. For example, the sound output part can convert an electrical signal into a sound signal and output the sound signal to the outside.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the power source 11 can supply power for the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 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. Furthermore, the power source 11 can supply power required for the operation of other components included in the aerosol generating apparatus 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 apparatus 1, or it can be removed from the battery housing. The removable battery can be charged via wired and / or wireless means.

[0074] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 receive power from power source 11, thereby enabling them 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).

[0075] 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 like titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. Resistance heaters can be implemented using metal heating wires, metal heating plates with conductive tracks, or ceramic heating elements.

[0076] According to one embodiment, heaters 18 and 24 can be induction heating heaters. For example, an induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) that heats up by a magnetic field. An alternating current flowing through an 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 induction heating element. Based on the generation of eddy currents, the induction heating element can be heated. According to one embodiment, the induction heating element may also be included inside an aerosol generating article (e.g., a medium section). In this case, the induction heating element included inside the aerosol generating article can also be heated by an induction coil.

[0077] Heaters 18 and 24 are not limited to the examples above, and may include various heating methods, structures, components, etc. for heating aerosol generating articles and / or smoke cartridges, or may be used in place of them.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the input unit 15 can receive information input by a 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.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the memory 17 is hardware used to store various data processed within the aerosol generating device 1, and can store data processed in the control unit 12 and 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 microtype, card-type memory (e.g., SD (Secure Digital) or XD (Extreme Digital) 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 device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices (e.g., portable electronic devices). 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 Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication unit, an Ultra Wideband (UWB) communication unit, an Ant+ (Adaptive Network Topology) communication unit, a Cellular Network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a Computer Network (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)) communication unit, etc.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the entire operation of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The control unit 12 may be implemented by an array of multiple logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microcontroller (MCU) (or microprocessor) and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the MCU. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which this embodiment pertains that the control unit may also be implemented by other forms of hardware.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of heaters 18 and 24 by controlling the power supply 11 to supply power 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 sensed 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.

[0083] 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 using 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), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc.

[0084] 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 ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element can correspond to the ratio of the output voltage of the power conversion circuit to the output voltage of the power supply 11.

[0085] 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 supply 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 PID to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the derivative value of the difference over time.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can determine the target power as a control objective based on the power curve. Over time, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 to correspond to the preset target power.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect user suction by sensing the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. More specifically, the control unit 12 can use a PID control method to control the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24. When a user performs suction, a temporary temperature drop may occur in the space where the aerosol-generating article is inserted (hereinafter referred to as the insertion space), the heaters 18 and 24, etc. Therefore, during the PID power control, the power (or current) supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 may change. The control unit 12 can detect user suction based on the controlled power change.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heaters 18 and 24 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeding a preset limit temperature, so as to reduce the power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 or interrupt the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the charging / 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 exceeds 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 exceeds 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 detection values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0091] 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, if the insertion sensing 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 supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24. If the insertion sensing 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. If 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.

[0092] 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, if the aerosol generating article is determined to be in an over-humidity state by using an over-humidity sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13), the control unit 12 can increase the power supply time (e.g., preheating time) to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0093] 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 has been reused. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating article has been used, it can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0094] 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, if the cartridge sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13) determines that the cartridge is in a separated state, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 or prevent the supply of power to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0095] 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, if the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge has been depleted. In the case 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.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the e-cigarette cartridge is available. For example, if the control unit 12 determines, based on data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of puffs exceeds the maximum number of puffs set for the e-cigarette cartridge, it can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the e-cigarette cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum time or if the total electrical power supplied to the heaters 18 and 24 exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power.

[0097] 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 has occurred and / or the intensity of suction. If the number of suctions has reached a preset maximum number of suctions and / or no suction is detected for a preset time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. When suction is sensed, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24.

[0098] 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 its type. 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 its type. As an example, if the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be counterfeit, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24. If the aerosol-generating article (or cartridge) is detected to be genuine, 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, if 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 first power curve). If 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 second power curve).

[0099] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13. For example, if 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 its operation in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner. For example, the control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 to provide information about the temperature of the heaters 18 and 24 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can store and update the history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of predetermined events. For example, events may include operations performed in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 such as sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, starting heating of the aerosol generating article, sensing suction, ending suction, sensing overheating of heaters 18 and 24, sensing overvoltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, ending heating of the aerosol generating article, turning the power supply of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 on / off, starting charging of the power supply 11, sensing overcharging of the power supply 11, and ending charging of the power supply 11. For example, the event history may include the date and time of the event, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is sensing the insertion of an aerosol generating article, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the sensing value of the insertion sensing sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). For example, if the predetermined event is the sensing of overheating of heaters 18 and 24, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of heaters 18 and 24, the voltage applied to heaters 18 and 24, the current flowing in heaters 18 and 24, etc.

[0101] 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.

[0102] According to one embodiment, if authentication data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can remove usage restrictions on at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., heating function). For example, the authentication data may include the user's birthday, a unique phone number representing the user, and whether the user has completed authentication.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send 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 sent data can be output through a display or the like on the external device.

[0104] According to one embodiment, if 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 operation corresponding to the location search. For example, the control unit 12 can control the tactile unit to vibrate, or control the display to output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search.

[0105] According to one embodiment, if firmware data is received from an external device via a communication link, the control unit 12 can perform a firmware update.

[0106] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the detection values ​​of at least one sensor unit 13 to an external server (not shown) via a communication link, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the detection 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 operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature curve.

[0107] 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 may disconnect the power supply 11 in response to overcharging and / or over-discharging. The aerosol generating device 1 may also include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0108] 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 arranged corresponding to at least one aerosol generating rod and may be designed differently depending on the arrangement and / or position of the aerosol generating rod and the filter rod. The aerosol generating rod may contain at least one of nicotine, an aerosol generating substance, and additives. For example, the aerosol generating substance may contain glycerin (e.g., vegetable glycerin (VG)) and / or propylene glycol (PG), or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, or may contain a variety of other substances. For example, the aerosol generating rod may contain an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., a sheet) impregnated with a liquid non-tobacco substance (e.g., the aerosol generating substance and / or nicotine), and / or may contain solid tobacco substances (e.g., tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco, etc.). Tobacco substances can be contained in the aerosol generating rod in various forms such as shreds, granules, and powder. According to one embodiment, the additives in the aerosol generating rod may contain an alkaline substance. Based on the alkaline substance, the nicotine in the tobacco substances contained in the aerosol generating rod can have an alkaline pH value (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). In this case, the aerosol generating rod can release free base nicotine even at lower temperatures. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may comprise two or more aerosol generating rods, and the two or more aerosol generating rods may each contain tobacco substances and / or non-tobacco substances. Additionally, although not shown, at least one aerosol generating rod and at least one filter rod may each be wrapped by at least one wrapper, and / or wrapped together by at least one wrapper. In this disclosure, the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as a stick.

[0109] The cartridge mentioned in this disclosure may contain an aerosol-generating substance in any of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may comprise a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing substances found in tobacco (including volatile tobacco flavor components) or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. Additionally, the cartridge may include a storage section for containing the aerosol-generating substance and / or a liquid delivery member for impregnating (containing) the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The cartridge heater 24 may be included in the cartridge in the form of a coil surrounding (or winding) the liquid delivery member or in a structure contacting one side of the liquid delivery member. Alternatively, the cartridge heater 24 may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0110] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0111] 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, those skilled in the art will understand that the components of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 are not limited to those described in this embodiment. Figure 2 or Figure 3 The constituent elements shown can be omitted or new constituent elements can be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "internal heating type" aerosol generating device that heats 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 that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. In the following figures, details related to... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0112] 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 recessed into the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth 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 containing 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 hold the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale the aerosol.

[0113] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0114] Reference Figure 2 Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0115] 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 can include rod-shaped or needle-shaped heating elements, but can 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.

[0116] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0117] For example, the resistance heater may include a resistive material on its inner side (e.g., an internal hollow or inner surface) or outer side (e.g., an outer surface), and can be heated as an electric current flows through the resistive material. In this case, the resistance heater may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and can be heated directly by receiving current from the power supply 11. Furthermore, the induction coil 181 may be omitted.

[0118] For example, for an induction heating 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., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or similar device may also be included outside the induction coil 181. The induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) and may generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating heater (e.g., an induction heating element) (or a heater module including it) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0119] According to one embodiment, heater 182 can also be a multiple heater. The multiple heaters may 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, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. In this case, the first and second heaters can be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of two or more aerosol generating rods. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and second part of an aerosol generating rod. Furthermore, when heater 182 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and second part of a heater 182. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can be implemented to heat the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0121] Reference Figure 3 Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the externally heated heater can extend upwardly and relatively long around the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). For example, the externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. As an example, the externally heated heater can include a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. The externally heated heater can also include a shape with a hollow interior that surrounds the hollow space. In this case, the externally heated heater can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. The externally heated heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The externally heated heater is capable of heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the hollow space.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and the terms related to... will be omitted. Figure 2 To reiterate. Furthermore, for induction heating heaters, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an external heating type heater formed by a tubular induction heating element, and may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the external heating type heater (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the heater's length). Additionally, the induction coil 181 may also include a fan coil. Furthermore, if the external heating type heater is a resistance heater, since heating can be achieved by current flowing through the tubular resistance heater (e.g., a thin-film heater), a separate induction coil 181 can be omitted. Additionally, insulating material may be arranged externally to the external heating type heater. This reduces the heat dissipated from the heater 183 in the radially outward direction and applied to the outside of the housing 10.

[0124] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can be multiple heaters, with the first and second heaters arranged side-by-side along the length direction and each surrounding at least a portion of the insertion space. The first and second heaters can operate as resistance heaters and / or induction heaters, and can be heated sequentially or simultaneously. Alternatively, when heater 183 is an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 can include a first induction coil and a second induction coil, which can be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of the first and second heaters. Alternatively, the first and second heaters can also be arranged respectively at positions corresponding to the length directions of a first and a second portion of heater 183.

[0125] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The situation shown is different, Figure 2 heater 182 and Figure 3 The heater 183 can be included in 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.

[0126] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for air circulation can be provided in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. 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 can enter the aerosol generating article 2 through its lower end (i.e., upstream side). The aerosol generated by heating the aerosol generating article 2 can be inhaled into the user's mouth along with the inflowing air through its upper end (i.e., downstream side).

[0127] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0128] Reference Figure 4 The housing 10 of the aerosol generating device 1 can extend vertically. (See above for reference.) Figures 1 to 3 The power supply 11, control unit 12, and sensor unit 13 described herein can be installed in the internal space of the housing 10.

[0129] A cap 20 can be attached to the top of the housing 10, and a hole 21H can be formed in the cap 20. The cap 20 can be referred to as an upper cap 20. The hole 21H can form part of an opening OP for insertion of the aerosol generating article 2. Part of the aerosol generating article 2 can be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device 1. The aerosol generating article 2 can be referred to as a rod 2. The opening OP can be referred to as an insertion space OP. A cover 20C can be slidably attached to the cap 20 to cover or open the hole 21H.

[0130] Figure 5 and Figure 6 This is an exploded perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0131] Reference Figure 5 The cover 20 may include an outer body 21 and outer wings 22. The outer body 21 may form the top of the cover 20, and a hole 21H may be formed in the outer body 21 to form part of the insertion space OP. The outer wings 22 may be formed at both ends of the outer body 21. A first outer wing 22a may protrude downward from one end of the outer body 21. A second outer wing 22b may protrude downward from the other end of the outer body 21. The height to which the second outer wing 22b protrudes from the outer body 21 may be equal to the height to which the first outer wing 22a protrudes from the outer body 21.

[0132] The extractor 30 may be positioned between the first outer wing 22a and the second outer wing 22b, and may protrude downward from the cover 20. The extractor 30 may be detachably attached to the cover 20. For example, the extractor 30 may be detachably attached to the cover 20 using a hook. The height at which the extractor 30 protrudes from the outer body 21 may be greater than the height at which the outer wing 22 protrudes from the outer body 21. The extractor 30 may be aligned with the hole 21H in the cover 20 and may form part of the insertion space OP. The extractor 30 may be positioned closer to the first outer wing 22a than to the second outer wing 22b.

[0133] The heater module 40 can be disposed between the first outer wing 22a and the second outer wing 22b, and can include an inner body 41 and inner wings 42. The inner body 41 can face the lower side of the outer body 21 of the cover 20. A hole 41H can be formed in the inner body 41, and the extractor 30 can pass through the hole 41H. The inner wings 42 can be formed at both ends of the inner body 41. The first inner wing 42a can protrude downward from one end of the inner body 41 and face the first outer wing 22a. The second inner wing 42b can protrude downward from the other end of the inner body 41 and face the second outer wing 22b. The height at which the second inner wing 42b protrudes from the inner body 41 can be equal to the height at which the first inner wing 42a protrudes from the inner body 41. The heater module 40 can be detachably coupled to the cover 20. For example, the heater module 40 can be detachably coupled to the cover 20 using a hook. For example, the heater module 40 can be detachably coupled to the cover 20 using the magnetic attraction of a magnet. The heater module 40 may be referred to as a retainer 40 or a bracket 40.

[0134] The housing 10 may open upwards. A first groove 10Ga may be formed in the upper front surface of the housing 10 and may be positioned corresponding to the first inner wing 42a and the first outer wing 22a. A second groove 10Gb may be formed in the upper rear surface of the housing 10 and may be positioned corresponding to the second inner wing 42b and the second outer wing 22b.

[0135] The support member 50 can be disposed between the first slot 10Ga and the second slot 10Gb, and can occupy the upper part of the internal space in the housing 10. The support member 50 can be fixed to the housing 10. The support surface 51, which is the upper surface of the support member 50, can be positioned below the upper end of the housing 10. A pair of walls 52 can protrude upward from the long sides of the support surface 51 and can face the inner surface of the housing 10. The pair of walls 52 can be positioned facing the long sides of the outer body 21 of the cover 20. The support member 50 may include a cup 53, a portion of the extractor 30, and a portion of the heater module 40 inserted into the cup 53.

[0136] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a heater module according to one embodiment.

[0137] Reference Figure 7 The hole 41H in the heater module 40 can be positioned closer to the first inner wing 42a than to the second inner wing 42.

[0138] The inner wall 43 may be adjacent to the hole 41H and may extend downward from the inner body 41. The inner wall 43 may protrude from the boundary of the hole 41H. The height by which the inner wall 43 protrudes from the inner body 41 may be greater than the height by which the inner wing 42 protrudes from the inner body 41. The inner walls 43 may be opposite each other relative to the center of the hole 41H. The first inner wall 43a may protrude from the inner body 41 in a direction intersecting with the inner body 41. The second inner wall 43b may protrude from the inner body 41 in a direction intersecting with the inner body 41 and may be opposite to the first inner wall 43a. The first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction, and the first inner wing 42a and the second inner wing 42b may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction intersecting with the first direction. The first direction may be a left-right direction (i.e., the x-axis direction), and the second direction may be a front-back direction (i.e., the y-axis direction).

[0139] A first gap 43Ga may be formed between a first inner wall 43a and a second inner wall 43b, and a first inner wing 42a may face the first gap 43Ga. The first inner wing 42a may cover a portion of the front side of the first gap 43Ga while being spaced apart from the inner wall 43. The first gap 43Ga may be referred to as a first window 43Ga or a first opening 43Ga.

[0140] The second gap 43Gb can be formed between the first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b, and the second inner wing 42b can face the second gap 43Gb. The second inner wing 42b can cover a portion of the rear side of the second gap 43Gb, while being spaced apart from the inner wall 43. The second gap 43Gb can be referred to as the second window 43Gb or the second opening 43Gb.

[0141] The first inner wing 42a, the second inner wing 42b, the first gap 43Ga, and the second gap 43Gb can be arranged in a row. For example, the first inner wing 42a, the second inner wing 42b, the first gap 43Ga, and the second gap 43Gb can be arranged in a row in the front-to-back direction (i.e., in the y-axis direction). The first gap 43Ga and the second gap 43Gb can be located between the first inner wing 42a and the second inner wing 42b. The first inner wing 42a and the second inner wing 42b can face each other through the first gap 43Ga and the second gap 43Gb.

[0142] The bottom part 44 can be formed at the lower end of the inner wall 43 and can face the hole 41H. The bottom part 44 can intersect with the inner wall 43. The bottom part 44 can have a circular shape.

[0143] The boundary of aperture 41H may include a first portion 41Ha, a second portion 41Hb, a third portion 41Hc, and a fourth portion 41Hd. The first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb may be opposite to each other relative to the center of aperture 41H and may form part of a circle (or ellipse). The third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be opposite to each other relative to the center of aperture 41H and may form part of a circle (or ellipse). The third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may share a center of curvature with the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb. The radius of the circle (or ellipse) defined by the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be larger than the radius of the circle (or ellipse) defined by the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb. The first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb may be positioned along the minor axis of aperture 41H, and the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be positioned along the major axis of aperture 41H.

[0144] In other words, the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be recessed inward within the inner body 41 relative to the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb. The third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be referred to as notches 41Hc and 41Hd or grooves 41Hc and 41Hd. A first inner wall 43a may be formed at the first portion 41Ha, and a second inner wall 43b may be formed at the second portion 41Hb. The third portion 41Hc may be located between the first inner wing 42a and the first gap 43Ga, and the groove (notch) defined by the third portion 41Hc may be formed above the first gap 43Ga. The fourth portion 41Hd may be positioned between the second inner wing 42b and the second gap 43Gb, and the groove (notch) defined by the fourth portion 41Hd may be formed above the second gap 43Gb.

[0145] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a heater module according to one embodiment.

[0146] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9The boundary of hole 41H can form an inclined surface. That is, the first part 41Ha, the second part 41Hb, the third part 41Hc, and the fourth part 41Hd can be formed as inclined surfaces. The first part 41Ha, the second part 41Hb, the third part 41Hc, and the fourth part 41Hd can be referred to as chamfered parts 41Ha, 41Hb, 41Hc, and 41Hd.

[0147] The third part 41Hc can form a predetermined angle θc relative to the vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. Angle θc can be an acute angle. Angle θc can be approximately 10 degrees. The fourth part 41Hd can form a predetermined angle θd relative to the vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. Angle θd can be equal to angle θc. Angle θd can be approximately 10 degrees.

[0148] The first part 41Ha can form a predetermined angle θa relative to the vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. Angle θa can be greater than or equal to angle θc. The second part 41Hb can form a predetermined angle θb relative to the vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. Angle θb can be greater than or equal to angle θc.

[0149] The inner wall 43 can form an acute angle with respect to the vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. The angle between the vertical line V and the inner wall 43 can be less than angles θc and θd. The first angle θ1 between the first inner wall 43a and the vertical line V can be approximately 3 degrees. The second angle θ2 between the second inner wall 43b and the vertical line V can be approximately 3 degrees. The inner wall 43 can be curved circumferentially around the hole 41H. The first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b can be symmetrical with respect to the vertical line V. Therefore, the molding yield of the heater module 40 can be improved, and the demolding of the heater module 40 can be facilitated.

[0150] The heater 18 can be disposed within the inner wall 43 and can be mounted to the bottom 44. The heater 18 may include a fixing portion 182a fixed to the bottom 44 and a protrusion 182b protruding from the fixing portion 182a. The protrusion 182b may extend in the vertical direction and may have a rod or pin shape. The protrusion 182b may be positioned on a vertical line V passing through the center of the hole 41H. The height of the protrusion 182b may be less than the height of the inner wall 43. The protrusion 182b may be referred to as an induction heating element 182b.

[0151] The protrusion 182b is exposed to the outside through gaps 43Ga and 43Gp formed between the inner walls 43. A first inner wing 42a may cover a portion of the front side of the first gap 43Ga, and a second inner wing 42b may cover a portion of the rear side of the second gap 43Gb. Therefore, a user can grasp the first inner wing 42a and the second inner wing 42b with his / her fingers, and the first inner wing 42a and the second inner wing 42b can be used to prevent the user's fingers from touching the protrusion 182b.

[0152] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an extractor according to one embodiment.

[0153] Reference Figure 10 The extractor 30 may include an upper part 31, a side wall 33, and a lower part 34.

[0154] The upper part 31 may have an overall shape of an annular band. The upper part 31 may have a circular shape.

[0155] Sidewall 33 can extend downward from upper portion 31. Sidewall 33 can protrude from the lower side of upper portion 31. First sidewall 33a and second sidewall 33b can protrude from upper portion 31 and can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of upper portion 31. First sidewall 33a and second sidewall 33b can be opposite to each other relative to the center of upper portion 31. First sidewall 33a and second sidewall 33b can be spaced apart from each other in a second direction. The second direction can be the front-back direction (i.e., the y-axis direction).

[0156] The first gap 33Ga can be formed between the first sidewall 33a and the second sidewall 33b. The first gap 33Ga can be referred to as the first window 33Ga or the first opening 33Ga.

[0157] The second gap 33Gb can be formed between the first sidewall 33a and the second sidewall 33b. The second gap 33Gb can be referred to as the second window 33Gb or the second opening 33Gb.

[0158] The lower portion 34 can be formed at the lower end of the sidewall 33 and can face the central hole 31H in the upper portion 31. The lower portion 34 can intersect with the sidewall 33. The lower portion 34 can have an annular shape, and the hole 34H can be formed in the lower portion 34. The diameter of the hole 34H can be smaller than the diameter of the central hole 31H. The hole 34H can be aligned with the central hole 31H.

[0159] Foreign matter such as residual shredded tobacco T from aerosol-generating article 2 can be located on the lower part 34. To facilitate removal of the residual shredded tobacco T from the extractor 30, gaps 33Ga and 33Gb can have a width greater than or equal to a predetermined value. For example, the lower part of gaps 33Ga and 33Gb containing the residual shredded tobacco T can have a width of approximately 7 mm or greater. The width of gaps 33Ga and 33Gb can gradually decrease from the lower part 34 towards the upper part 31. In other words, the width Wa of the first sidewall 33a can gradually increase towards the upper end of the first sidewall 33a, and the width Wb of the second sidewall 33b can also gradually increase towards the upper end of the second sidewall 33b. Therefore, the residual shredded tobacco T can be easily removed from the extractor 30, and the extractor 30 can have an intensity greater than or equal to a predetermined level.

[0160] Figure 11 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an extractor according to one embodiment.

[0161] Reference Figure 11 The hole 34H can be formed at the center of the lower part 34. The first sidewall 33a can form a predetermined angle θ3a relative to the vertical line W passing through the center of the hole 34H. The angle θ3a can be an acute angle. The angle θ3a can be approximately 5 degrees. The second sidewall 33b can form a predetermined angle θ3b relative to the vertical line W passing through the center of the hole 34H. The angle θ3b can be substantially equal to the angle θ3a. The angle θ3b can be approximately 5 degrees. The first sidewall 33a and the second sidewall 33b can be symmetrical with respect to the vertical line W. Therefore, the molding yield of the extractor 30 can be improved, and the demolding of the extractor 30 can be facilitated.

[0162] The portion 33r where the sidewall 33 and the lower part 34 intersect can be rounded. The radius of curvature R3 of portion 33r can be approximately 0.3 mm.

[0163] The side surface of the upper part 31 can be formed as multiple steps. A first part 311 can form the lower part of the upper part 31, and a sidewall 33 can be connected to the first part 311. The outer peripheral surface of the first part 311 can be formed as an inclined surface, and the width of the first part 311 can gradually increase upwards. The first part 311 can have a taper of about 5 degrees. A second part 312 can be connected to the first part 311. Multiple recessed portions can be formed in the outer peripheral surface of the second part 312. A third part 313 can be connected to the second part 312 and can form the upper part of the upper part 31. A fourth part 314 and a fifth part 315 can protrude from the outer peripheral surface of the third part 313 and can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the third part 313. The fourth part 314 can be positioned corresponding to the first sidewall 33a, and the fifth part 315 can be positioned corresponding to the second sidewall 33b.

[0164] Figure 12 This is an exploded perspective view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0165] Reference Figure 12 The first sidewall 33a can be positioned as the third portion 41Hc corresponding to the hole 41H, and the second sidewall 33b can be positioned as the fourth portion 41Hd corresponding to the hole 41H. The distance D4 between the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd can be greater than the distance D3 between the lower ends of the first sidewall 33a and the second sidewall 33b. The width W3 of the lower portion 34 can be less than the distance between the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb.

[0166] Therefore, the extractor 30 can be inserted into the heater module 40 through the hole 41H in the heater module 40.

[0167] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment. Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a side view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0168] Reference Figures 13 to 15 The first sidewall 33a can be positioned in the first gap 43Ga between the first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b (see...). Figure 7 The second sidewall 33b can be positioned in the second gap 43Gb between the first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b (see...). Figure 7 )middle.

[0169] A first gap 43Ga can be formed between a first side 43aa of the first inner wall 43a facing the first side wall 33a and a first side 43ba of the second inner wall 43b facing the first side wall 33a. The first side 33aa of the first side wall 33a can extend along and contact the first side 43aa of the first inner wall 43a. The first side 33aa and the first side 43aa can be oblique lines inclined at a predetermined angle θ4a (acute angle) relative to a vertical line V or W that is the axis of the length direction of the heater 18. A second side 33ab of the first side wall 33a can extend along and contact the first side 43ba of the second inner wall 43b. The second side 33ab and the first side 43ba can be oblique lines inclined at a predetermined angle θ4b (acute angle) relative to a vertical line V or W. Angles θ4a and θ4b can be equal to each other. Because sides 33aa and 43aa, as well as sides 33ab and 43ba, are formed as diagonal lines, the gap between the sides can be minimized, and demolding of the extractor 30 and the heater module 40 can be facilitated.

[0170] The width of the first gap 43Ga can be the distance between the first side 43aa of the first inner wall 43a and the first side 43ba of the second inner wall 43b. The width of the first gap 43Ga can gradually decrease in the direction from the inner body 41 toward the bottom 44. The width of the first side wall 33a can be the distance between the first side 33aa and the second side 33ab of the first side wall 33a. The width of the first side wall 33a can gradually decrease in the direction from the upper part 31 toward the lower part 34. The minimum width W3a of the first side wall 33a can be greater than the minimum width W4a of the first gap 43Ga.

[0171] Therefore, the first sidewall 33a can be inserted into the first gap 43Ga, and can only move to the portion of the first gap 43Ga with a width equal to the minimum width W3a. That is, the inner walls 43a and 43b can restrict the downward movement of the first sidewall 33a, and the lower end of the first sidewall 33a can be spaced upward from the lower end of the first gap 43Ga.

[0172] The second gap 43Gb can be formed between the second side 43ab of the first inner wall 43a facing the second side wall 33b and the second side 43bb of the second inner wall 43b facing the second side wall 33b. The first side 33ba of the second side wall 33b can extend along and contact the second side 43ab of the first inner wall 43a. The first side 33ba and the second side 43ab can be oblique lines inclined at a predetermined angle θ4c (acute angle) relative to the vertical line V or W, which is the axis of the length direction of the heater 18. The second side 33bb of the second side wall 33b can extend along and contact the second side 43bb of the second inner wall 43b. The second side 33bb and the second side 43bb can be oblique lines inclined at a predetermined angle θ4d (acute angle) relative to the vertical line V or W. Angles θ4c and θ4d can be equal to each other. Because sides 33ba and 43ab, as well as sides 33bb and 43bb, are formed as diagonal lines, the gap between the sides can be minimized, and demolding of the extractor 30 and heater module 40 can be facilitated.

[0173] The width of the second gap 43Gb can be the distance between the second side 43ab of the first inner wall 43a and the second side 43bb of the second inner wall 43b. The width of the second gap 43Gb can gradually decrease in the direction from the inner body 41 toward the bottom 44. The width of the second side wall 33b can be the distance between the first side 33ba and the second side 33bb of the second side wall 33b. The width of the second side wall 33b can gradually decrease in the direction from the upper part 31 toward the lower part 34. The minimum width W3b of the second side wall 33b can be greater than the minimum width W4b of the second gap 43Gb.

[0174] Therefore, the second sidewall 33b can be inserted into the second gap 43Gb, and can only move to the portion of the second gap 43Gb having a width equal to the minimum width W3b. That is, the inner walls 43a and 43b can restrict the downward movement of the second sidewall 33b, and the lower end of the second sidewall 33b can be spaced upward from the lower end of the second gap 43Gb.

[0175] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0176] Reference Figure 16 The sidewall 33 of the extractor 30 and the inner wall 43 of the heater module 40 can be alternately arranged. The first inner wall 43a, the first sidewall 33a, the second inner wall 43b, and the second sidewall 33b can be alternately arranged in the circumferential direction of the heater 18. The first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b can be spaced apart from each other and opposite each other in a first direction DR1, and the first sidewall 33a and the second sidewall 33b can be spaced apart from each other and opposite each other in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1. The first direction DR1 can be a left-right direction (i.e., the x-axis direction), and the second direction DR2 can be a front-back direction (i.e., the y-axis direction).

[0177] Therefore, the sidewalls 33 and the inner wall 43 can be arranged in a cross shape to surround the side surface of the heater 18.

[0178] The first inner wall 43a and the second inner wall 43b can be bent into a convex shape in the radial direction of the heater 18. The inner surface of the first side wall 33a and the inner surface of the second side wall 33b can be bent into a concave shape in the radial direction of the heater 18. The side surface of the hollow cylinder can be divided into an inner wall 43 and a side wall 33.

[0179] Figure 17 This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an extractor and heater module according to one embodiment. Figure 18 This is an enlarged view of the extractor and heater module according to one embodiment.

[0180] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 The upper portion 31 of the extractor 30 can protrude upward from the inner body 41 of the heater module 40. The first portion 311 of the upper portion 31 can connect with the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb of the hole 41H in the heater module 40 (see...). Figure 12 The first part 311 may be located above the first part 41Ha and the second part 41Hb (see [reference]). Figure 12 ).

[0181] The protrusion 182b of heater 18 can pass through the hole 34H in the lower part 34 of extractor 30. The width W10 of hole 34H can be greater than the width W11 of protrusion 182b. That is, the boundary of hole 34H can be spaced apart from the outer surface of protrusion 182b, and an airflow path P13 can be formed between hole 34H and protrusion 182b.

[0182] The lower portion 34 of the extractor 30 may be spaced upwardly from the bottom 44 of the heater module 40. An airflow path P12 may be formed between the lower portion 34 and the bottom 44. A first gap 43Ga and a second gap 43Gb may form part of the airflow path P12.

[0183] The first sidewall 33a may be spaced apart from the third portion 41Hc of the hole 41H in the heater module 40, and the airflow path P10a may be formed between the third portion 41Hc and the first sidewall 33a.

[0184] The second sidewall 33b may be spaced apart from the fourth portion 41Hd of the hole 41H in the heater module 40, and the airflow path P10b may be formed between the fourth portion 41Hd and the second sidewall 33b.

[0185] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0186] Reference Figure 19 Holes 21H and 31H can form part of the insertion space OP in the aerosol generating device 1. The inner wall 43, side wall 33, and lower part 34 can form the remaining part of the insertion space OP. The aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the insertion space OP, and the heater 18 can be inserted into the lower part of the insertion space OP of the aerosol generating article 2 (see [reference]). Figure 4 Heater 18 can heat the aerosol-generated item 2. For example, induction coil 181 (see...) Figure 2 The heater 18 may be disposed on the side of the cup 53 (described later), and may include an induction heating element that generates heat using a magnetic field produced by the induction coil 181. Optionally, the heater 18 may be connected to a power supply 11 (see [link to power supply]). Figure 2 It is electrically connected and can generate heat using the current supplied from power source 11.

[0187] The cup 53 of the support 50 can open upwards and surround the side surfaces of the inner wall 43 and the side wall 33. The inner wall 43 and the side wall 33 can be spaced apart from the inner surface of the cup 53. An airflow path P11 can be formed between the walls 43 and 33 and the inner surface of the cup 53. Therefore, air can pass sequentially through airflow paths P10, P11, P12 and P13, and can then be supplied to the aerosol generating article 2 mounted on the heater 18 (see...).Figure 19 (The dashed arrow in the middle).

[0188] As a result, the user can inhale air by holding the aerosol-generating article 2, heated by heater 18, in their mouth. The aerosol-generating article 2 can be referred to as stick 2.

[0189] The heater module 40 can be detachably coupled to the support member 50. For example, the heater module 40 can be detachably coupled to the support member 50 by hook engagement. The first engagement portion 46a can protrude from the lower end of the first inner wing 42a and may include a first slot 45a (see...). Figure 5 The second joint 46b may protrude from the lower end of the second inner wing 42b and may include the second slot 45b (see...). Figure 5 The first connecting portion 46a can be inserted into the gap 56a formed between the support member 50 and the housing 10, and the first slot 45a in the first connecting portion 46a can engage with the first hook 55a protruding from the housing 10. The second connecting portion 46b can be inserted into the gap 56b formed between the support member 50 and the housing 10, and the second slot 45b in the second connecting portion 46b can engage with the second hook 55b protruding from the housing 10.

[0190] Additionally, the cover 20 can be detachably attached to the support 50. For example, the cover 20 can be detachably attached to the support 50 via a hook engagement. The first wall 52a can project upward from one side of the support surface 51 of the support 50 and can be on the side facing the body 21 (left side) (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first slot 52ah can be formed in the first wall 52a, and the first hook 21a protruding from one side of the body 21 can engage with the first slot 52ah (see [link]). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second wall 52b can protrude upward from the opposite side of the support surface 51 of the support member 50, and can face the opposite side (right side) of the main body 21 (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The second slot 52bh can be formed in the second wall 52b, and the second hook 21b protruding from the opposite side of the body 21 can engage with the second slot 52bh (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0191] The user can detach the extractor 30 and cap 20 from the heater module 40 while the heater module 40 is attached to the support 50. In this case, the remaining shredded tobacco T, such as aerosol-generating article 2 (see...), is removed. Figure 10Foreign objects can be removed through the lower part 34 of the extractor 30, thus cleaning the area around the heater 18. Furthermore, the user can detach the heater module 40 from the support 50 to clean, repair, or replace the heater module 40.

[0192] Reference Figures 1 to 19 According to one aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include: a housing 10, formed elongated; a heater module 40 disposed within an interior space of the housing 10, and including a heater 18 extending along the length of the housing 10; and an extractor 30 surrounding a portion of a side surface of the heater 18. The heater module 40 may include: a bottom 44 on which the heater 18 is disposed; and a pair of inner walls 43 protruding from the bottom 44 and opposite to each other relative to the heater 18. The extractor 30 may include a lower portion 34 and a pair of side walls 33, the lower portion 34 facing the bottom 44 and through which the heater 18 passes, and the pair of side walls 33 protruding from the lower portion 34, opposite to each other relative to the heater 18 and alternately disposed with the pair of inner walls 43. The lower portion 34 may be spaced apart from the bottom 44 and the heater 18 to form airflow paths P12 and P13.

[0193] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, a pair of inner walls 43 may be spaced apart from each other in a first direction DR1, and a pair of side walls 33 may be spaced apart from each other in a second direction DR2 intersecting the first direction DR1.

[0194] In another aspect of this disclosure, the lower portion 34 may include a hole 34H through which the heater 18 passes, and the hole 34H may have a boundary spaced apart from the outer surface of the heater 18.

[0195] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heater module 40 may further include an inner body 41, the inner body 41 including an aperture 41H, through which a pair of sidewalls 33 extend. The pair of inner walls 43 may protrude from the inner body 41 at a location adjacent to the aperture 41H, and may connect a bottom 44 to the inner body 41. The boundary of the aperture 41H may be spaced apart from the pair of sidewalls 33 to form airflow paths P10a and P10b.

[0196] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heater module 40 may further include slots 41Hc and 41Hd, which are recessed in the boundary of the hole 41H in the inner body 41, and the slots 41Hc and 41Hd may be spaced apart from a pair of sidewalls 33 to form airflow paths P10a and P10b.

[0197] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the boundary of the hole 41H in the inner body 41 may include a first portion 41Ha and a second portion 41Hb, as well as a third portion 41Hc and a fourth portion 41Hd. The first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb are arranged opposite each other and form part of a circle, while the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd are arranged opposite each other, alternating with the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb to form part of a circle. The radius of the circle formed by the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd may be larger than the radius of the circle formed by the first portion 41Ha and the second portion 41Hb.

[0198] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the third portion 41Hc and the fourth portion 41Hd can be formed as inclined surfaces with acute angles θc and θd relative to the axis in the length direction of the heater 18.

[0199] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a cup 53 surrounding a pair of inner walls 43 and a pair of side walls 33. The cup 53 may include an inner surface spaced apart from the pair of side walls 33 to form an airflow path P11.

[0200] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, a pair of sidewalls 33 may include a side that contacts one side of a pair of inner walls 43 and forms an oblique line.

[0201] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, a pair of inner walls 43 may form acute angles θ1 and θ2 relative to the axis of the heater 18 along its length.

[0202] In addition, according to another aspect of this disclosure, each of the pair of sidewalls 33 may have a width that gradually increases in the direction away from the lower portion 34.

[0203] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the heater module 40 may further include: a first gap 43Ga formed between a pair of inner walls 43, with one of the pair of side walls 33a and 33b disposed in the first gap 43Ga; a second gap 43Gb formed between a pair of inner walls 43, with the other of the pair of side walls 33a and 33b disposed in the second gap 43Gb; an inner body 41 including a hole 41H through which the pair of side walls 33a and 33b pass; a first inner wing 42a bent from one end of the inner body 41 and covering a portion of the first gap 43Ga; and a second inner wing 42b bent from the other end of the inner body 41 and covering a portion of the second gap 43Gb.

[0204] Additionally, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a support 50, which is fixed to the housing 10 and includes a cup 53 into which a heater module 40 and an extractor 30 are inserted. The heater module 40 may further include a coupling 46a, which protrudes from the first inner wing 42a and engages with the support 50 by a hook engagement.

[0205] The embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The constituent elements or functions of the embodiments of this disclosure described above, or other embodiments, can be used together or combined with each other.

[0206] For example, this means that component A illustrated in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with component B illustrated in other embodiments and / or drawings. That is, this means that even if the combination between components is not directly described, they can be combined except where it is stated that combination is impossible.

[0207] The detailed description above should be considered exemplary in all respects and not construed as restrictive. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: The shell is formed in a slender shape; A heater module is disposed in the internal space of the housing, the heater module comprising a heater extending in the longitudinal direction of the housing; as well as Extractor, surrounding a portion of the side surface of the heater. The heater module includes: The heater is disposed on the bottom; and A pair of inner walls protruding from the bottom, the pair of inner walls being opposite each other relative to the heater. The extractor includes: The lower part, facing the bottom, through which the heater passes; and A pair of sidewalls protruding from the lower portion, the pair of sidewalls being opposite each other relative to the heater and alternately arranged with the pair of inner walls, and The lower part is spaced apart from the bottom and the heater to form an airflow path.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The pair of inner walls are spaced apart from each other in a first direction, and The pair of sidewalls are spaced apart from each other in a second direction that intersects with the first direction.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The lower portion includes a hole through which the heater passes, and The hole has a boundary spaced apart from the outer surface of the heater.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater module also includes an inner body with a hole through which the pair of sidewalls pass. The pair of inner walls protrude from the inner body near the hole and connect the bottom to the inner body. The boundary of the hole is spaced apart from the pair of sidewalls to form an airflow path.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The heater module further includes a groove recessed into the boundary of the hole in the inner body, and The groove is spaced apart from the sidewall to form the airflow path.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The boundary of the hole in the inner body includes: A first part and a second part are arranged opposite to each other, the first part and the second part forming a portion of a circle; and The third and fourth parts are arranged opposite to each other and alternate with the first and second parts, the third and fourth parts forming part of a circle, and The radius of the circle formed by the third part and the fourth part is greater than the radius of the circle formed by the first part and the second part.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The third and fourth portions are formed as inclined surfaces that form an acute angle with respect to the axis of the heater's length direction.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a cup surrounding the pair of inner walls and the pair of side walls. in, The inner surface of the cup is spaced apart from the pair of sidewalls to form an airflow path.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, One side of the sidewall contacts one side of the inner wall and forms an oblique line.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The inner wall forms an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the heater.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The width of each of the pair of sidewalls gradually increases in the direction away from the lower part.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater module also includes: An inner body, including a hole through which the pair of sidewalls pass; A first inner wing, curved from one end of the inner body; and The second inner wing bends from the opposite end of the inner body, and A first gap is formed between the pair of inner walls, and one of the pair of side walls is disposed within the first gap. A second gap is formed between the pair of inner walls, and the other sidewall of the pair of sidewalls is disposed within the second gap. The first gap, the second gap, the first inner wing, and the second inner wing are arranged in a row.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a support member fixed to the housing, the support member comprising a cup, the heater module and the extractor being inserted into the cup. in, The heater module also includes a connecting portion that protrudes from the first inner wing and is engaged with the support member via a hook.

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