Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The aerosol-generating device includes: a housing including an insertion space for accommodating an aerosol-generating article; one or more heaters for heating the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space; and a deformation unit that deforms in accordance with a temperature change caused by the one or more heaters, in which the heating area of the aerosol-generating article by the one or more heaters changes in accordance with the deformation of the deformation unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of this disclosure relate to aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus that, after heating has commenced, alters the heated portion of an aerosol generating article over time. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, there has been a growing demand for alternatives to overcome the drawbacks of regular cigarettes. For example, there is increasing demand for systems that generate aerosols by heating cigarettes or aerosol-generating substances using an aerosol-generating device, rather than burning the cigarettes. Consequently, research into heated aerosol-generating devices is actively underway.

[0003] To heat the cigarette or aerosol-generating material, a heater can be installed in the aerosol-generating device. The heater can heat the medium portion of the cigarette or the aerosol-generating material to produce aerosol.

[0004] Various instruments or devices can be installed around the heater that emits heat. For example, a sensor for measuring the heater's temperature can be installed. Furthermore, a heat insulation structure can be installed to prevent heat transfer from the heater to the user. Additionally, a device capable of utilizing temperature changes in the heater can be installed.

[0005] One example of a device that utilizes the temperature change of a heater is a bimetal. A bimetal is an object composed of two different types of metals bonded together in an overlapping state, and it is a device that converts temperature changes into mechanical changes in length and position. If heat is applied to a bimetal, the two metals elongate by different lengths due to the difference in their coefficients of thermal expansion; therefore, the bimetal can be bent towards the metal with the lower coefficient of thermal expansion. Conversely, when cooled relative to a reference temperature, it bends towards the metal with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion. Most metals have excellent flexibility, so they can be easily bent.

[0006] Common bimetals have a structure that combines two strip-shaped fragments; in addition, bimetals can also have a coil-like structure. Coil-like bimetals have a relatively long length, so they can undergo greater length changes with temperature variations. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical problems to be solved

[0008] During user operation of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating article (in this case, "cigarette" or "cigarette stick" can be used in the same sense as "aerosol generating article") typically remains stationary relative to the heater. Similarly, the heater also remains stationary relative to the aerosol generating article, heating the medium portion of the aerosol generating article from a fixed position inside the aerosol generating device.

[0009] When the heat generated by the heater is transferred to the medium section, the heat diffuses from the contact portion with the heater to the entire area of ​​the medium section. If the entire area of ​​the medium section is heated simultaneously, a large amount of aerosol can be generated in a short time.

[0010] When the heat generated by the heater is rapidly transferred to the entire area of ​​the medium section, a large amount of aerosol can be supplied to the user in the initial stage of using the aerosol generator. In this case, relatively less aerosol is generated in the later stages of using the aerosol generator, resulting in a smaller amount of aerosol supplied to the user, which may reduce the user's perceived satisfaction with smoking.

[0011] To solve this problem, aerosol is generated uniformly during the user's use of the aerosol generating device by preventing the entire area of ​​the medium from being heated for a short period of time.

[0012] Several embodiments provide an aerosol generating apparatus capable of controlling a heater to increase the heated area of ​​the aerosol generating article over time during the heating of the aerosol generating article.

[0013] Furthermore, several embodiments provide an aerosol generating apparatus capable of controlling the heater so that the heated portion of the aerosol generating article changes over time during the heating of the aerosol generating article.

[0014] Furthermore, several embodiments provide an aerosol generating apparatus in which the number of heaters powered during the heating of the aerosol generating article is gradually increased.

[0015] The problems to be solved by the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand from this specification and the accompanying drawings any problems not mentioned.

[0016] means of solving technical problems

[0017] An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment may include: a housing including an insertion space for receiving an aerosol generating article; one or more heaters for heating the aerosol generating article inserted in the insertion space; and a deformable portion that deforms in response to temperature changes caused by the one or more heaters, wherein, as the deformable portion deforms, the heating area of ​​the one or more heaters for the aerosol generating article changes.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus may include: a housing including an insertion space for receiving an aerosol generating article; one or more heaters for heating the aerosol generating article inserted in the insertion space; and a deformable portion that deforms in response to temperature changes caused by the one or more heaters, wherein as the deformable portion deforms, the one or more heaters move, thereby changing the heated portion of the aerosol generating article.

[0019] According to yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus may include: a housing including an insertion space for receiving an aerosol generating article; a plurality of heaters for heating the aerosol generating article inserted in the insertion space; and a first deformable portion that deforms in response to temperature changes caused by the plurality of heaters, wherein the plurality of heaters may include a first heater and a second heater, and the first deformable portion functions as a thermal switch by deforming in response to temperature changes caused by the first heater to supply power to the second heater.

[0020] Invention Effects

[0021] According to several embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, aerosols can be generated uniformly during the period when the user uses the aerosol generating apparatus. This can improve the user's satisfaction with smoking.

[0022] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand any effects not mentioned from this specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 2a An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0025] Figure 2b An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0026] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0027] Figure 4a as well as Figure 4b This is a cross-sectional view showing the heater of the aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0028] Figure 5a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus using an example of a heater.

[0029] Figure 5b It is shown Figure 5a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0030] Figure 6a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus that utilizes another example of a heater.

[0031] Figure 6b It is shown Figure 6a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0032] Figure 7a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus that utilizes another example of a heater.

[0033] Figure 7b It is shown Figure 7a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0034] Figure 8a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus using a stationary heater and a mobile heater.

[0035] Figure 8b It is shown Figure 8a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0036] Figure 9a This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its first state, which utilizes two fixed heaters and one mobile heater.

[0037] Figure 9b It is shown Figure 9a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0038] Figure 10a It shows that the application is with Figure 8a Cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation device in its first state under different deformation methods.

[0039] Figure 10b It is shown Figure 10a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0040] Figure 11a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating device that utilizes a heater that can move along the length direction.

[0041] Figure 11b It is shown Figure 11a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0042] Figure 12a This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its first state, which utilizes a heater that can move circumferentially.

[0043] Figure 12b It is shown Figure 12a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0044] Figures 13a to 13e This is a simplified schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device that utilizes multiple heaters activated sequentially.

[0045] Figure 14a as well as Figure 14b This is a three-dimensional view showing multiple heaters that are activated sequentially. Detailed Implementation

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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).

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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 history of events 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] Figure 2a An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 2b An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0122] 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 2a or Figure 2b The constituent elements shown can be omitted or new constituent elements can be added. Figure 2a 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 2b 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0125] Reference Figure 2a Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0126] 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.

[0127] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the dielectric part), 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.

[0132] Reference Figure 2b Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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 2a 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] and Figure 2a or Figure 2b The situation shown is different, Figure 2a heater 182 and Figure 2b The heater 183 can be included together with the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0137] 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).

[0138] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown.

[0139] 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 183, 24 (e.g., Figure 1 (Heats 18, 24). 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 3 The constituent elements shown may be partially omitted, or new constituent elements may be added. In the following figures, those omitted and... Figure 1 Repeated explanation.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the housing 10 may provide an upwardly opening space (hereinafter referred to as an insertion space) for inserting the aerosol generating article 2. The insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth to allow at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. 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.

[0141] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, the cartridge 19 may also provide an insertion space for accommodating the aerosol generating article 2. In this case, the insertion space may be recessed into the interior of the cartridge 19 to a predetermined depth, allowing at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 to be inserted. The lower end of the aerosol generating article 2 may be inserted into the interior of the cartridge 19, while the upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 may protrude outward from the cartridge 19. Furthermore, in this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may not include the heater 183.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the depth of the insertion space can be greater than the length of the region of the aerosol generating article 2 containing the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The user can hold the exposed upper end of the aerosol generating article 2 in their mouth and inhale air.

[0143] According to one embodiment, heater 183 can heat aerosol generating article 2. Heater 183 can extend relatively long upwards around the periphery of the space into which aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space). As an example, heater 183 can be a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. Heater 183 can also include a shape with a hollow interior that encloses the hollow space. In this case, heater 183 can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. Heater 183 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. Heater 183 can heat the outside of the hollow aerosol generating article 2 inserted therein. In this disclosure, heater 183 can be referred to as an external heating type heater that heats the outside of the aerosol generating article 2. Additionally, an insulating material can also be arranged on the outside of heater 183. This reduces the heat dissipated from heater 183 in a radially outward direction and applied to the outside of housing 10.

[0144] According to one embodiment, heater 183 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0145] For example, a resistance heater may include a resistive material and can be heated as an electric current flows through it. In this case, the resistance heater may be electrically connected to power source 11 and can be heated directly by receiving current from power source 11.

[0146] For example, for an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include an induction coil (not shown) surrounding at least a portion of the heater 183 (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the length of the heater 183). In this case, to improve the efficiency of induction heating, a magnetic flux concentrator or the like may also be included outside the induction coil (not shown). 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 (not shown).

[0147] According to one embodiment, heater 183 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 183 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 183. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0148] Unlike the case shown in the attached diagram, the aerosol generating device 1 may also exclude the heater 183. The aerosol generating article 2 may be directly or indirectly heated by the cartridge heater 24, or substantially unheated. Indirect heating means that the aerosol generating article 2 receives heat contained within the aerosol as it passes through the cartridge heater 24. In this case, the aerosol generating device 1 may be referred to as a non-heating (or, indirectly heated) aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating article 2 may contain additives such as alkaline substances. Based on this alkaline substance, the nicotine contained in the aerosol generating rod may have an alkaline pH (e.g., pH 7.0 or higher). This alkaline nicotine can flow into the user's mouth along with the aerosol flowing from the cartridge 19 into the aerosol generating article 2, as described later.

[0149] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, heater 183 may also include an internally heated type heater. For example, an internally heated type heater may include various heating elements such as rod-type, tubular-type, plate-type, or needle-type heating elements. The internally heated type heater can be inserted through the lower part of the aerosol generating article 2 and can be configured to heat the inner side of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can be detachably attached to the housing 10. For example, a space can be formed on one side of the housing 10, and at least a portion of the cartridge 19 can be inserted into the space formed on one side of the housing 10, so that the cartridge 19 can be installed in the housing 10. Alternatively, the cartridge 19 can be integrally formed with the housing 10.

[0151] According to one embodiment, an airflow channel for air circulation can be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the cartridge 19. For example, the housing 10 may include a structure that allows air to flow from the outside into the interior of the housing 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. The inflowing air can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the insertion space through the airflow channel CN, and can flow into the user's mouth. The airflow channel CN ​​may also include various structures for reducing residual droplets or promoting airflow.

[0152] exist Figure 3 Although the illustration shows the cartridge 19 positioned to the side of the aerosol generating article 2 and the airflow channel CN ​​forming from the side surface of the aerosol generating article 2 toward the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2, the positions of the cartridge 19 and the airflow channel CN ​​are not limited to this. For example, the cartridge 19 may be positioned adjacent to the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2, and in this case, the airflow channel CN ​​may be formed substantially in a straight line to connect the cartridge 19 to the lower end (i.e., the upstream side) of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may include a storage section C0 containing aerosol-generating material, a cartridge heater 24, and / or a liquid delivery member impregnated with (containing) aerosol-generating material. The liquid delivery member is capable of being impregnated with aerosol-generating material supplied from the chamber C0. For example, the liquid delivery member may include a core material such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 can heat the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0155] As an example, a resistance heater may include a resistive material and can be heated as an electric current flows through it. As another example, for an induction heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include an induction coil (not shown) around the periphery of the induction heater. The induction heater may include an induction heating element and can generate heat based on a magnetic field generated from the induction coil (not shown). The cartridge heater 24 can be formed in a coil configuration surrounding (or winding around) the liquid delivery member and / or in contact with one side of the liquid delivery member (e.g., a patterned shape).

[0156] Unlike the case shown in the attached figures, the cartridge heater 24 may also be included in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may be included inside the housing 10. In this case, the cartridge 19 can be separated from the cartridge heater 24 by removing the cartridge 19.

[0157] According to one embodiment, an aerosol can be generated based on the heating of the cartridge heater 24. For example, as the aerosol generating material impregnated in the liquid delivery member is heated by the cartridge heater 24, vapor can be generated from the aerosol generating material, and as the generated vapor mixes with external air flowing into the cartridge 19, an aerosol can be generated. The aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 flows into the aerosol generating article 2 through the airflow channel CN. As the aerosol passes through the aerosol generating article 2, tobacco or flavoring substances can be added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco or flavoring substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0158] Figure 4a as well as Figure 4b This is a schematic diagram of the heater of the aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments.

[0159] Reference Figure 4a as well as Figure 4b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 1100 and a heater 1200.

[0160] The housing 1100 forms the overall appearance of the aerosol generating device 1 and may include an internal space for arranging the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1. A heater 1200, a power supply, and a control unit may be arranged within the internal space of the housing 1100; however, for ease of explanation, [the following is omitted as it is not directly related to the main text]. Figure 4a as well as Figure 4b Other structures besides heater 1200 are omitted.

[0161] The housing 1100 may include a quadrangular prism shape with a rectangular cross-section. It should be noted that the shape of the housing 1100 is not limited to the shape shown in the figure, and the housing 1100 as a whole may be formed into a cylindrical shape or a polygonal prism shape.

[0162] The housing 1100 may include an opening for inserting an aerosol-generating article into the interior of the housing 1100. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into or contained within the interior of the housing 1100 through the opening.

[0163] The housing 1100 may internally include items for containing aerosol-generating materials (such as...) Figure 3 The aerosol generating article 2) has an insertion space 1100i. The insertion space 1100i may be formed on the upper part of the housing 1100. The insertion space 1100i opens upward and is connected to the opening.

[0164] The insertion space 1100i may have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating article can be housed within the housing 1100 through an opening on the upper side of the insertion space 1100i. The depth of the aerosol-generating article within the insertion space 1100i can then correspond to the length of the region within the aerosol-generating article that contains the aerosol-generating substance or medium.

[0165] The heater 1200 is a structure for heating the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i. The heater 1200 can generate aerosols from the aerosol generating article 2. The heater 1200 can extend vertically along the insertion space 1100i.

[0166] according to Figure 4a As shown, heater 1200 may be a cylindrical resistance heater that encloses at least a portion of insertion space 1100i. According to... Figure 4b As shown, heater 1200 may be a plurality of resistance heaters 1200a, 1200b, 1200c, 1200d that enclose part of insertion space 1100i and have an arcuate cross-section. The plurality of resistance heaters 1200a, 1200b, 1200c, 1200d may be arranged separately from each other along the circumference of heater 1200.

[0167] It should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to the shape and configuration of the heater 1200. As another example, the heater 1200 may include a cylindrical base that encloses at least a portion of the insertion space 1100i and an induction coil that encloses the base. As yet another example, the heater 1200 may be inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i to heat the interior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0168] At least one area of ​​the aerosol generating article 2 contained in the insertion space 1100i can be heated by the heater 1200. The gasified particles generated by the heating of the aerosol generating article 2 are mixed with the air flowing into the internal space of the housing 1100 through an air inlet (e.g., an opening) formed in a region of the housing 1100 to generate an aerosol.

[0169] On the other hand, heater 1200 can be a cylindrical heater (e.g.: Figure 3 (Cylindrical heater 24). In this case, the aerosol generating article 2 is not a cigarette or a cigarette stick, but... Figure 3 19.

[0170] The following explains how the heating area of ​​the aerosol-generating article increases over time during the heating process.

[0171] Figure 5a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus using an example of a heater. Figure 5b It is shown Figure 5a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0172] Reference Figure 5a as well as Figure 5b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a heater 1200. The shape of the heater 1200 can change according to the temperature.

[0173] When describing the changing shape of the heater, in the first state... Figure 5a The image shows the lower part of heater 1200 rolled up towards the outer side of the upper part of heater 1200. In the second state... Figure 5b The image shows the lower part of the heater 1200, which is rolled up upwards, unfolded, and the heater 1200 as a whole has a cylindrical shape.

[0174] Specifically, the heater 1200 may include a fixed portion 1201 and a deformable portion 1202. Figure 5a In this design, the fixed portion 1201 is located inside the cylindrical dashed line, and the deformable portion 1202 is located outside the dashed line. Figure 5b In the middle, the fixed part 1201 is the upper part of the single-dot dashed line of the circular single-dot dashed line that is horizontally cut into the shape of a cylinder, and the deformable part 1202 is the lower part of the single-dot dashed line.

[0175] The fixed portion 1201 can be located inside the single-dot dashed line regardless of the temperature of the heater 1200. The shape of the deformable portion 1202 changes with the temperature of the heater 1200, so that it can move from the outside to the inside of the single-dot dashed line.

[0176] The heater 1200 may include a bimetallic material 1300, such that the shape of the heater 1200 changes with temperature. In this case, with reference to the fixed portion 1201 of the heater 1200, the metal 1310 with a higher coefficient of thermal expansion may be positioned relatively on the outer side, and the metal 1320 with a lower coefficient of thermal expansion may be positioned relatively on the inner side. The metal 1310 with the higher coefficient of thermal expansion is referred to as the first metal 1310, and the metal 1320 with the lower coefficient of thermal expansion is referred to as the second metal 1320. The first metal 1310 and the second metal 1320 are used with the same meaning throughout the specification.

[0177] The first state can represent a state where no power is supplied to the heater 1200. That is, in the first state, the heater does not heat up and does not heat the aerosol-generated items. The second state can represent a state where power is supplied to the heater 1200 and it heats up. In this state, the aerosol-generated items can be heated. The first and second states are used with the same meaning throughout the instruction manual.

[0178] During the transition from the first state to the second state, power is supplied to the heater 1200, and the temperature of the heater 1200 can gradually increase. As the temperature of the heater 1200 increases, the first metal 1310 disposed on the outer side deforms more than the second metal 1320 disposed on the inner side, taking the fixed portion 1201 of the heater 1200 as a reference, so that the lower part of the heater 1200, which is rolled up upwards, can be unfolded. As a result, the area inside the dashed line in the heater 1200 can gradually increase.

[0179] A region of the heater 1200 located inside the dashed line contacts the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article, thereby heating the aerosol-generating article. As the temperature of the heater 1200 increases, the region of the heater 1200 located inside the dashed line gradually increases, so that the heated area of ​​the aerosol-generating article can be increased over time.

[0180] The fixed portion 1201 of the heater 1200 heats the aerosol generating article by heating itself when electricity is supplied to the heater 1200. The deformable portion 1202 of the heater 1200 deforms as the temperature increases, thereby heating the aerosol generating article upon contact with it. That is, the upper part of the medium portion of the aerosol generating article can be heated first, and then the upper and lower parts of the medium portion can be heated together over time.

[0181] The lower part of the medium is heated later than the upper part of the medium section. Therefore, in the initial stage of heating by the heater 1200, aerosols can be generated in the upper part of the medium section, while in the later stage of heating, aerosols are mainly generated in the lower part of the medium section. This prevents the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0182] As the aerosol generating device 1 is no longer in use and the temperature of the heater 1200 decreases, the heater 1200 can change from its second state shape to its first state shape. That is, the lower part of the heater 1200 can be rolled up again. When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the heater 1200 can change from its first state shape to its second state shape again.

[0183] Figure 6a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus using an example of a heater. Figure 6b It is shown Figure 6a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0184] Reference Figure 6a as well as Figure 6b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a heater 1200. The heater 1200 may then include a plate-shaped coil. The plate-shaped coil-shaped heater 1200 can be inserted into a space (e.g.: Figure 4a The insertion space 1100i has a predetermined width in its circumferential direction. The heater 1200 has a predetermined width, so that the heater 1200 can contact the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 in the circumferential direction of the insertion space 1100i by a predetermined width.

[0185] As shown in the accompanying drawings, two plate-shaped coil-shaped heaters 1200 are configured, but the embodiment is not limited to the number shown in the drawings. Multiple plate-shaped coil-shaped heaters 1200 may be configured along the circumference of the insertion space 1100i.

[0186] One end of the heater 1200 can be located at the center of the plate-shaped coil. One end of the heater 1200 can be fixed to the housing (e.g.: Figure 4a The heater 1200 may be located at the edge of the plate-shaped coil. According to an embodiment, the other end of the heater 1200 may be located at the portion extending tangentially from the edge of the plate-shaped coil.

[0187] In the first state, the other end of the heater 1200 can contact the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i. It should be noted that the rolled-up portion of the heater 1200, including one end of the heater 1200, can be in contact with the aerosol generating article 2.

[0188] As power is supplied to heater 1200, heater 1200 can heat aerosol generating article 2 through its other end. Specifically, a region A1 of aerosol generating article 2 that is in contact with the other end of heater 1200 can be heated. The rolled-up portion of heater 1200 does not contact aerosol generating article 2, so it cannot heat aerosol generating article 2.

[0189] The shape of the heater 1200 can change with temperature. Specifically, the other end of the heater 1200 can extend or contract in the length direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the insertion space 1100i, corresponding to the temperature of the heater 1200. During the transition from the first state to the second state, as the temperature of the heater 1200 increases, the other end of the heater 1200 can extend significantly in the length direction of the insertion space 1100i.

[0190] As the other end of the heater 1200 extends along the length of the insertion space 1100i, the contact area between the heater 1200 and the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2 can be increased. Therefore, the area of ​​the aerosol generating article 2 heated by the heater 1200 can be increased.

[0191] In the second state, in addition to the upper part of the medium portion of the aerosol generating article 2, the lower part can also contact the other end of the heater 1200. That is, the area A2 of the aerosol generating article 2 in contact with the other end of the heater 1200 can be increased compared to the contact area A1 in the first state. Due to this change in the shape of the heater 1200, the upper part of the medium portion of the aerosol generating article 2 is heated first, and then the upper and lower parts of the medium portion are heated together over time.

[0192] The lower part of the medium is heated later than the upper part of the medium section. Therefore, in the initial stage of heating by the heater 1200, aerosols can be generated in the upper part of the medium section, while in the later stage of heating, aerosols are mainly generated in the lower part of the medium section. This prevents the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0193] As the aerosol generating device 1 ceases to be used and the temperature of the heater 1200 decreases, the heater 1200 can change from its second state shape to its first state shape. That is, the other end of the heater 1200 can retract along the length of the insertion space 1100i. When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the heater 1200 can change from its first state shape to its second state shape again.

[0194] On the other hand, the other end of the extended heater 1200 may not extend straight but bend along the shape of the coil. Thus, the other end of the extended heater 1200 may not come into contact with the aerosol generating article 2.

[0195] To address this problem, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment may further include a heater guide 1250. The heater guide 1250 may support at least a portion of the heater 1200 such that the other end of the heater 1200 can extend only in the length direction of the insertion space 1100i. The other end of the heater 1200 extends in only one direction via the heater guide 1250, thereby maintaining contact with the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0196] Furthermore, the heater guide 1250 may include a heat-insulating material. The heater guide 1250 can seal the heat generated at the other end of the heater 1200 inside the heater guide 1250. This improves the heating efficiency of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0197] Figure 7a This is a perspective view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus that utilizes another example of a heater. Figure 7b It is shown Figure 7a A three-dimensional view of the second state of the aerosol generating device.

[0198] Reference Figure 7a as well as Figure 7b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 1100, a heater 1200, and a deformable portion 1300. The shape of the heater 1200 can change with temperature.

[0199] At this time, as the temperature of heater 1200 increases, the lower part of heater 1200, which is rolled up upwards, unfolds as described above. Figure 5a as well as Figure 5b The content is the same.

[0200] It should be noted that, with Figure 5a as well as Figure 5b Unlike other heaters, the shape of the heater 1200 can also be changed by means of the deformable part 1300, whose shape changes with the temperature of the heater 1200.

[0201] The deformable portion 1300 is a structure that deforms in response to temperature changes. In this disclosure, the temperature of the deformable portion 1300 can be varied by the heater 1200. For example, the deformable portion 1300 can be connected to the heater 1200. As the temperature of the heater 1200 changes, the deformable portion 1300, which is connected to the heater 1200, absorbs the heat generated by the heater 1200, and thus the temperature of the deformable portion 1300 can also change.

[0202] That is, it can be regarded as Figure 5a as well as Figure 5b The illustrated embodiment is where the modified part 1300 is the heater 1200 itself. Figure 7a as well as Figure 7b The illustrated embodiment is a case where the deformable part 1300 and the heater 1200 are separate constituent elements connected to each other.

[0203] The deformable portion 1300 may have the property that its shape changes with temperature. For example, the deformable portion 1300 may be composed of at least one of shape memory alloy, shape memory polymer, shape memory ceramic or bimetal, but is not limited thereto. The following mainly describes an embodiment in which the deformable portion 1300 is a bimetal.

[0204] As the temperature rises, the first metal 1310 expands more than the second metal 1320. At this point, the two ends of the first metal 1310 and the two ends of the second metal 1320 are joined together, so the bimetallic structure bends towards the metal with less thermal expansion. As a result, the first metal 1310 is located on the raised side of the bent bimetallic structure, and the second metal 1320 is located on the recessed side.

[0205] The deformable portion 1300, which incorporates the first metal 1310 and the second metal 1320, can be straightened in the first state. During the transition from the first state to the second state, the deformable portion 1300, due to the increased temperature, can be bent. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the first metal 1310 is greater than that of the second metal 1320, so the deformable portion 1300 can be bent in the direction from the first metal 1310 toward the second metal 1320.

[0206] At this time, one end of the deformable part 1300 can be fixed to the housing 1100 and the constituent elements disposed inside the housing 1100, and the other end of the deformable part 1300 can be connected to the heater 1200. At this time, the other end of the deformable part 1300 can be connected to the upward rolled-up portion 1202 in the heater 1200, instead of the unfolded portion 1201.

[0207] As the deformable portion 1300 deforms due to temperature changes, the heating area of ​​the heater 1200 for the aerosol generating article 2 can change. Specifically, as the temperature of the deformable portion 1300 increases through the heater 1200, the heating area of ​​the heater 1200 for the aerosol generating article 2 can increase.

[0208] For example, as the first metal 1310 of the deformable portion 1300 is attached to the upper part of the second metal 1320, the deformable portion 1300 can be bent downwards. The position of one end of the fixed deformable portion 1300 does not change, and the other end of the deformable portion 1300 is bent downwards, so that the rolled-up portion 1202 in the heater 1200 connected to the deformable portion 1300 can be unfolded downwards.

[0209] In the first state, the unfolded portion 1201 of the heater 1200 can contact the aerosol generating article 2, while the rolled-up portion 1202 of the heater 1200 does not contact the aerosol generating article 2.

[0210] As power is supplied to the heater 1200, a region A1 of the aerosol generating article 2 that is in contact with the unfolded portion 1201 of the heater 1200 can be heated. The rolled-up portion 1202 of the heater 1200 is not in contact with the aerosol generating article 2, so the aerosol generating article 2 cannot be directly heated.

[0211] When changing from the first state to the second state, the extended portion 1201 of the heater 1200 gradually increases through the deformation section 1300. As a result, the contact area between the heater 1200 and the aerosol generating article 2 increases, and thus a region A2 of the aerosol generating article 2 in contact with the extended portion 1201 of the heater 1200 becomes the largest in the second state.

[0212] That is, after heating begins, the heated area of ​​the aerosol generating article 2 can increase over time. As described above, the lower part is heated later than the upper part of the medium section, thus preventing the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short period of time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0213] On the other hand, as the temperature of the heater 1200 and the deformable part 1300 decreases after the use of the aerosol generating device 1 ends, the heater 1200 and the deformable part 1300 can change from their shapes in the second state to their shapes in the first state. That is, the deformable part 1300, which is extended and bent at the same time, can shrink and unfold again, and the lower part of the heater 1200 can be rolled up again.

[0214] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the heater 1200 and the deformable part 1300 can change from the shape of the first state to the shape of the second state.

[0215] Figure 8a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus that employs a fixed heater and a mobile heater. Figure 8b It is shown Figure 8a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0216] Reference Figure 8a as well as Figure 8b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 1100, a heater 1200, and a deformable part 1300.

[0217] The heater 1200 may include a fixed first heater 1210 and a movable second heater 1220. As shown in the figures, the second heater 1220 may be disposed below the first heater 1210, but the embodiment is not limited to the relative positions of the two heaters 1200 shown in the figures.

[0218] The second heater 1220 can be moved via the deformable portion 1300. Specifically, the second heater 1220 is connected to the deformable portion 1300, and can move as the deformable portion 1300 deforms. One end of the deformable portion 1300 can be fixed to the housing 1100 or a constituent element disposed inside the housing 1100, and the other end of the deformable portion 1300 can be connected to a part of the second heater 1220. In this case, the deformable portion 1300 can be arranged side by side with the second heater 1220.

[0219] As the deformable portion 1300 deforms, the second heater 1220 can move between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position separates from the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i, and the second position contacts the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i. At this time, the first position can represent... Figure 8a The position of the second heater 1200 in the first state is shown, and the second position can represent Figure 8b The position of heater 1200 in the second state is shown.

[0220] In the first state, the first heater 1210 can come into contact with the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 1220 can be separately configured from the insertion space 1100i and the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i.

[0221] As electricity is supplied to heater 1200, a portion of the aerosol-generating article 2 (e.g., the upper part of the medium section) that is in contact with first heater 1210 can be heated. Figure 8aThe area shown as the "heating area" can be considered the area heated by the first heater 1210. At this time, power is also supplied to the second heater 1220, so the second heater 1220 can also dissipate heat. It should be noted that the second heater 1220 does not come into contact with the aerosol-generating article 2, so it cannot directly heat the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0222] When changing from the first state to the second state, during the period when the temperature rises through the second heater 1220, the deformable part 1300 can pressurize the second heater 1220 to move it toward the insertion space 1100i.

[0223] Specifically, the deformable portion 1300 can be disposed on the outer side relative to the second heater 1200. In this case, the first metal 1310 with a large coefficient of thermal expansion is disposed on the outer side of the second metal 1320 with a small coefficient of thermal expansion, so the deformable portion 1300, which combines the first metal 1310 and the second metal 1320, increases in size as the temperature increases and bends toward the second heater 1220.

[0224] The position of one end of the fixed deformable portion 1300 remains unchanged, while the other end of the deformable portion 1300 bends toward the second heater 1220, thereby allowing the deformable portion 1300 to pressurize the second heater 1220. As the deformable portion 1300 pressurizes, the second heater 1220 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0225] In the second state, in addition to the first heater 1210, the second heater 1220 can also come into contact with the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 in contact with the second heater 1220 (e.g., the lower part of the medium section) can also be heated. Figure 8b The portion shown as the "heating area" can be equivalent to the area heated by the first heater 1210 and the second heater 1220.

[0226] That is, after a predetermined time has elapsed since heating began, the heated area of ​​the aerosol-generating article 2 can increase. In this case, the predetermined time can represent the time required for the second heater 1220 to move from the first position to the second position.

[0227] As described above, the lower part is heated later than the upper part of the medium section, so as to prevent the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short time, thereby allowing the user to inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0228] As the aerosol generating device 1 ceases to be used and the temperature of the heater 1200 and the deformable part 1300 decreases, the deformable part 1300 can change from its shape in the second state to its shape in the first state. That is, the deformable part 1300, which has been extended and bent, can then contract and unfold again. As a result, the second heater 1200 can move from the second position back to the first position.

[0229] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the deformable part 1300 can change from the shape of the first state to the shape of the second state, and the second heater 1200 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0230] On the other hand, in order to facilitate the smooth movement of the second heater 1220, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may also include a track 1400. The track 1400 can guide the movement of the second heater 1220. The track 1400 extends in the radial direction (e.g., the y-axis direction) of the insertion space 1100i and can guide the movement of the second heater 1220.

[0231] The track 1400 is disposed inside the housing 1100, and the second heater 1220 may include a protrusion (not shown) to engage with the track 1400. Therefore, during the movement of the second heater 1220, the protrusion of the second heater 1220 is guided by the track 1400 of the housing 1100, so the second heater 1220 can stably move between a first position and a second position within the interior space of the housing 1100.

[0232] As described above, a protrusion is provided on the side of the second heater 1220, and the track 1400 may include a groove structure that engages with the protrusion. It should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to this description. Instead, a groove structure may be provided on the side of the second heater 1220, and the track 1400 may be a protrusion inserted into the groove.

[0233] Figure 9a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating apparatus employing two stationary heaters and one mobile heater. Figure 9b It is shown Figure 9a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0234] Reference Figure 9a as well as Figure 9b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 1100, a heater 1200, and a deformable part 1300.

[0235] The heater 1200 may include a fixed first heater 1210, a movable second heater 1220, and a fixed third heater 1230. The second heater 1220 may be configured between the first heater 1210 and the third heater 1230.

[0236] The second heater 1220 can be moved via the deformable portion 1300. Specifically, the second heater 1220 is connected to the deformable portion 1300, and thus can move as the deformable portion 1300 deforms. One end and the other end of the deformable portion 1300 can be fixed to the housing 1100 or to a constituent element disposed inside the housing 1100, and the second heater 1220 can be disposed at the center of the deformable portion 1300. Specifically, a portion of the second heater 1220 can be connected to the center of the deformable portion 1300. In this case, the deformable portion 1300 can be configured facing the first heater 1210 and the third heater 1230.

[0237] As the deformable portion 1300 deforms, the second heater 1220 can move between a first position and a second position. The first position separates from the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i, and the second position contacts the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i. At this time, the first position can represent... Figure 9a The position of the second heater 1200 in the first state is shown, and the second position can represent Figure 9b The position of heater 1200 in the second state is shown.

[0238] In the first state, the first heater 1210 and the third heater 1230 can come into contact with the aerosol generating article 2. The second heater 1220 can be separately configured from the insertion space 1100i and the aerosol generating article 2 housed in the insertion space 1100i.

[0239] As electricity is supplied to heater 1200, two parts (e.g., the upper and lower parts of the medium section) of the aerosol generating article 2, which are in contact with the first heater 1210 and the third heater 1230 respectively, can be heated. Figure 9a The portion shown as the "heating area" can be equated to the area heated by the first heater 1210 and the third heater 1230. At this time, power is also supplied to the second heater 1220, so the second heater 1220 can also dissipate heat. It should be noted that the second heater 1220 does not come into contact with the aerosol-generating article 2, so it cannot directly heat the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0240] During the transition from the first state to the second state, while the temperature rises through the second heater 1220, the deformable part 1300 can pressurize the second heater 1220 to move it toward the insertion space 1100i.

[0241] Specifically, the deformable portion 1300 can be disposed on the outer side relative to the second heater 1200. In this case, the first metal 1310 with a large coefficient of thermal expansion is disposed on the inner side compared to the second metal 1320 with a small coefficient of thermal expansion. Therefore, the deformable portion 1300, which combines the first metal 1310 and the second metal 1320, increases in size as the temperature increases and bends towards the second heater 1220.

[0242] The positions of one end and the other end of the fixed deformable portion 1300 do not change. The deformable portion 1300 is bent such that its center protrudes toward the second heater 1220, thereby allowing the deformable portion 1300 to pressurize the second heater 1220. As the deformable portion 1300 is pressurized, the second heater 1220 can move from a first position to a second position.

[0243] In the second state, in addition to the first heater 1210, the second heater 1220 can also come into contact with the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 in contact with the second heater 1220 (e.g., the center portion of the medium section) is also heated. Figure 9b The area shown as "heating area" can be equivalent to the area heated by three heaters 1210, 1220, and 1230.

[0244] That is, after a predetermined time has elapsed since heating began, the heated area of ​​the aerosol-generating article 2 can increase. At this time, the predetermined time can represent the time required for the second heater 1220 to move from the first position to the second position.

[0245] As described above, the central part is heated later than the peripheral part (e.g., the upper and lower parts) of the medium part, so as to prevent the entire area of ​​the medium part from being heated in a short time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0246] Figure 10a It shows that the application is with Figure 8a Cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation device in its first state under different deformation methods. Figure 10b It is shown Figure 10a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0247] Reference Figure 10a as well as Figure 10b According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 1100, a heater 1200, and a deformable part 1500.

[0248] Figure 10a as well as Figure 10b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown can be combined with Figure 8a as well as Figure 8b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0249] With the aforementioned deformed parts (such as Figure 8a The deformed part 1300 includes strips with different shapes. Figure 10a as well as Figure 10b The deformable portion 1500 shown may include a plate-shaped coil shape.

[0250] At this point, it is assumed that one end 1510 of the deformable portion 1500 is located at the center of the plate-shaped coil, and the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 is located at the portion extending tangentially from the edge of the plate-shaped coil. One end 1510 of the deformable portion 1500 can be fixed to the housing 1100 or a constituent element disposed inside the housing 1100, and the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 can be connected to a part of the second heater 1220.

[0251] During the transition from the first state to the second state, the deformable portion 1500, whose temperature rises due to the second heater 1220, can deform so that the other end 1520, which is not fixed, extends. As shown in the accompanying drawings, as the temperature of the deformable portion 1500 increases, the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 can extend toward the insertion space 1100i.

[0252] The position of one end 1510 of the fixed deformable portion 1500 remains unchanged, while the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 extends toward the insertion space 1100i. This allows the deformable portion 1500 to pressurize the second heater 1220 connected to the other end 1520, causing it to move toward the insertion space 1100i. As the deformable portion 1500 is pressurized, the second heater 1220 can move from a first position to a second position.

[0253] On the other hand, the other end 1520 of the extended deformable portion 1500 may be bent along the shape of the coil and not extend straight. As a result, the other end 1520 of the extended deformable portion 1500 may not be able to pressurize the second heater 1220 toward the insertion space 1100i.

[0254] To address these issues, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment may further include a guide portion 1600. The guide portion 1600 may support the deformable portion 1500 such that the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 extends in one direction toward the insertion space 1100i. Since the deformable portion 1500 extends in only one direction via the guide portion 1600, the second heater 1220 can be effectively pressurized toward the insertion space 1100i.

[0255] Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment may also include a connecting portion 1700. The connecting portion 1700 is a structure that connects one end 1510 of the first heater 1210 and the deformable portion 1500 to transfer heat generated in the first heater 1210 to the deformable portion 1500. One end 1510 of the deformable portion 1500 is connected to the first heater 1210 via the connecting portion 1700, and the other end 1520 of the deformable portion 1500 can be connected to the connecting portion 1700. Thus, in addition to the second heater 1220, heat generated in the first heater 1210 can also be transferred to the deformable portion 1500.

[0256] Therefore, the temperature of the deformable section 1500 can rise rapidly, and the degree of deformation of the deformable section 1500 per unit time can be increased. That is, the other end 1520 of the deformable section 1500 can extend more quickly, thus preventing the second heater 1220 from failing to contact the aerosol generating article 2 due to insufficient moving distance during user use of the aerosol generating device 1. Furthermore, the second heater 1220 can not only easily contact the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2, but can also move to a degree that can pressurize the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 2, so the aerosol generating article 2 can be effectively heated by the second heater 1220.

[0257] As the aerosol generating apparatus 1 ceases to be used and the temperature of the heater 1200 and the deformable section 1500 decreases, the deformable section 1500 can change from its shape in the second state to its shape in the first state. That is, the deformable section 1500, which extends at the other end 1520, can retract. As a result, the second heater 1200 can move from the second position to the first position.

[0258] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the deformable part 1500 can change from the shape of the first state to the shape of the second state, and the second heater 1200 can move from the first position to the second position.

[0259] The following describes the changes over time in the heated portion of the aerosol-generating article during heating.

[0260] Figure 11a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating device that utilizes a heater that can move along the length direction. Figure 11b It is shown Figure 11a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0261] Reference Figure 11a as well as Figure 11b According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 2100, a heater 2200, and a deformable part 2300.

[0262] Figure 11a as well as Figure 11b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown can be combined with Figure 7a as well as Figure 7b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0263] The heater 2200 can move with temperature. Specifically, the heater 2200 can move via a deformable part 2300 whose shape changes with the temperature of the heater 2200.

[0264] One end of the deformable portion 2300 can be fixed to the housing 2100 or a constituent element disposed inside the housing 2100, and the other end of the deformable portion 2300 can be connected to a part of the heater 2200 (e.g., the outer side). Therefore, as the temperature of the heater 2200 changes, the temperature of the deformable portion 2300 connected to the heater 2200 can also change.

[0265] The deformable portion 2300, which combines a first metal 2310 with a large coefficient of thermal expansion and a second metal 2320 with a small coefficient of thermal expansion, can be unfolded straight in the first state. During the transition from the first state to the second state, the deformable portion 2300, due to the increased temperature, can be bent. Since the coefficient of thermal expansion of the first metal 2310 is greater than that of the second metal 2320, the deformable portion 2300 can be bent in the direction from the first metal 2310 toward the second metal 2320.

[0266] As the deformable portion 2300 deforms due to temperature changes, the heater 2200 moves, thereby changing the heated portion of the aerosol-generating article 2. Specifically, as the temperature of the deformable portion 2300 increases through the heater 2200, the deformable portion 2300 extends and bends downwards. One end of the fixed deformable portion 2300 remains stationary, while the other end bends downwards, allowing the heater 2200, connected to the deformable portion 2300, to move along its length (e.g., the z-axis direction) due to the deformation of the deformable portion 2300. As the heater 2200 moves, the heated portion of the aerosol-generating article 2 can change.

[0267] When changing from the first state to the second state, the heater 2200 can move towards the lower part (e.g., in the -z direction) of the insertion space 2100i due to the deformation section 2300. As a result, the heated portion of the aerosol generating article 2 can also move from the upper part to the lower part of the medium section. Heating the lower part later than the upper part of the medium section prevents the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short time, thus ensuring that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0268] As the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is discontinued and the temperature of the heater 2200 and the deformable part 2300 decreases, the deformable part 2300 can change from its shape in the second state to its shape in the first state. That is, the deformable part 2300, which is extended and bent at the same time, can then contract and unfold again. As a result, the heater 2200 can move towards the upper part of the insertion space 2100i.

[0269] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the deformable part 2300 can change from the shape of the first state to the shape of the second state, and the heater 2200 can move to the lower part of the insertion space 2100i.

[0270] On the other hand, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to another embodiment may also include a support portion 2400 for supporting the outer side of the heater 2200 so that the heater 2200 can move only in the longitudinal direction.

[0271] The support portion 2400 may include a guide hole 2410 for connecting the deformable portion 2300 and the heater 2200. The guide hole 2410 allows the deformable portion 2300 to pass through. The other end of the deformable portion 2300 can pass through the support portion 2400 through the guide hole 2410 and be connected to the outer side of the heater 2200.

[0272] The guide hole 2410 can extend in the longitudinal direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the heater 2200. The deformable part 2300 deforms only in the longitudinal direction of the heater 2200 through the guide hole 2410, so the heater 2200 can be effectively moved to the upper and lower parts of the insertion space 2100i.

[0273] Figure 12a This is a cross-sectional view showing the first state of an aerosol generating device with a heater that can move circumferentially. Figure 12b It is shown Figure 12a A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device in its second state.

[0274] Reference Figure 12a as well as Figure 12b According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a housing 2100, a heater 2200, a deformable part 2300, a support part 2400, and a protrusion 2500.

[0275] Figure 12a as well as Figure 12b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown can be combined with Figure 11a as well as Figure 11b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0276] and Figure 11a as well as Figure 11b As described above, the heater 2200 moves according to the deformation of the deformable part 2300 caused by temperature changes, so that the heated part of the aerosol generating article 2 can change.

[0277] Specifically, as the temperature of the deformable portion 2300 increases via the heater 2200, the deformable portion 2300 enlarges and bends toward the insertion space 2100i. The position of one end of the fixed deformable portion 2300 remains unchanged, while the other end bends toward the insertion space 2100i, allowing the heater 2200 connected to the deformable portion 2300 to move circumferentially through the deformation of the deformable portion 2300. As the heater 2200 moves, the heated portion of the aerosol generating article 2 can change.

[0278] When changing from the first state to the second state, the heater 2200 can move circumferentially towards the insertion space 2100i due to the deformation section 2300. As a result, the heated portion of the aerosol generating article 2 can also move along its periphery. That is, in the aerosol generating article 2, the portion that comes into contact with the heater 2200 after the heater 2200 has moved is heated later than the portion that came into contact with the heater 2200 before the heater 2200 moved. This prevents the entire area of ​​the medium section from being heated in a short time, allowing the user to inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0279] As the aerosol generating device 1 is discontinued and the temperature of the heater 2200 and the deformable part 2300 decreases, the deformable part 2300 can change from its shape in the second state to its shape in the first state. That is, the deformable part 2300, which was extended and bent at the same time, can then contract and unfold again. As a result, the heater 2200 can move in the opposite direction to the direction it has moved.

[0280] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the deformable part 2300 can change from the shape of the first state to the shape of the second state, and the heater 2200 can move around the insertion space 2100i.

[0281] The support portion 2400 is a configuration that supports the outer side of the heater 2200 so that the heater 2200 can move only in the circumferential direction. The support portion 2400 may include a guide hole 2410 for connecting the deformable portion 2300 and the heater 2200. As shown in the drawings, the deformable portion 2300 and the heater 2200 can be connected by a protrusion 2500.

[0282] The protrusion 2500 is a structure that protrudes from the outer side of the heater 2200 and engages with the guide hole 2410. For example, the protrusion 2500 can be inserted into or pass through the guide hole 2410. The protrusion 2500 moves while engaging with the guide hole 2410, so the heater 2200 will not disengage from the support portion 2400 and can move along the support portion 2400. Therefore, the heater 2200 can move only circumferentially within the heater 2200 and the insertion space 2100i.

[0283] One end of the deformable portion 2300 can be fixed to the housing 2100 or a constituent element disposed inside the housing 2100, and the other end of the deformable portion 2300 can be connected to the protrusion 2500 that engages with the guide hole 2410. That is, the other end of the deformable portion 2300 can be connected to the outer side of the heater 2200 through the protrusion 2500.

[0284] The guide hole 2410 can extend circumferentially toward the heater 2200 or circumferentially toward the insertion space 2100i. The deformable part 2300 deforms only in the circumferential direction of the heater 2200 through the guide hole 2410, so the heater 2200 can be effectively moved circumferentially in both the heater 2200 and the insertion space 2100i.

[0285] The following explains the gradual increase in the number of heaters supplied with electricity during the heating of aerosol-generating articles.

[0286] Figures 13a to 13e This is a simplified schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device that utilizes multiple heaters activated sequentially.

[0287] Reference Figures 13a to 13e According to yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a plurality of heaters 3200 and one or more deformable parts 3300.

[0288] Figures 13a to 13e At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown can be combined with Figure 7a as well as Figure 7b At least one of the constituent elements of the aerosol generating device 1 shown is the same or similar, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0289] The deformation section 3300 can deform in response to temperature changes caused by the heater 3200, thus activating the heater 3200. In this case, the deformation section 3300 deforms using the heat generated by the heater 3200, thereby performing a "thermal switch" function.

[0290] The deformation section 3300, which deforms one heater 3200, allows electricity to be supplied to another heater 3200. Thus, multiple heaters 3200 can be activated sequentially after heating begins.

[0291] As shown in the accompanying drawings, four heaters 3200 can be configured. That is, the heaters 3200 may include a first heater 3210, a second heater 3220, a third heater 3230, and a fourth heater 3240. Three deformable portions 3300 can be configured. That is, the deformable portions 3300 may include a first deformable portion 3300a, a second deformable portion 3300b, and a third deformable portion 3300c. It should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to the number of heaters 3200 and deformable portions 3300 shown.

[0292] Reference Figure 13a This shows what it looks like when all heaters 3200 are not activated. That is, Figure 13a The state shown is that no power is supplied to any of the heaters 3200.

[0293] At this point, of the four heaters 3200, only the first heater 3210 is connected to the power supply or control unit. The second heater 3220 can be connected to the first heater 3210 via the first deformable part 3300a. The third heater 3230 can be connected to the second heater 3220 via the second deformable part 3300b. The fourth heater 3240 can be connected to the third heater 3230 via the third deformable part 3300c. That is, two heaters 3200 can be connected to each other via one deformable part 3300. Therefore, compared to the number of heaters 3200, one less deformable part 3300 can be configured.

[0294] It should be noted that before the deformable part 3300 undergoes thermal deformation, for example, in the state where the deformable part 3300 is straight and unfolded as shown in the figure, the two heaters 3200 are not electrically connected. When the deformable part 3300 deforms and bends due to heat, the two heaters 3200 can be electrically connected. Thus, electricity can be supplied from one heater 3200 that is already powered to the other heater 3200.

[0295] Reference Figure 13b The first heater 3210 can receive power from a power source via a control unit. Once activated, the first heater 3210 generates heat. The heat generated by the first heater 3210 can cause the first deformable portion 3300a to deform, but... Figure 13b The image shows the state where the first deformable part 3300a remains undeformed because the first heater 3210 has not been heated for a sufficient period of time.

[0296] With the first deformed portion 3300a in its unbent state, the first heater 3210 and the second heater 3220 are in an open state where they are not electrically connected. Therefore, no power is supplied from the first heater 3210 to the second heater 3220. Furthermore, no current flows from the first heater 3210 to the first deformed portion 3300a.

[0297] Reference Figure 13c The first deformable portion 3300a can be deformed by the heat generated by the first heater 3210. Specifically, the temperature of the first deformable portion 3300a can change in response to the temperature change of the first heater 3210, thereby allowing the first deformable portion 3300a to deform.

[0298] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the first deformable portion 3300a can be separately disposed from the first heater 3210. Thus, the heat generated by the first heater 3210 diffuses into the space between the first deformable portion 3300a and the first heater 3210, thereby being transferred to the first deformable portion 3300a.

[0299] It should be noted that the embodiments are not limited to the contents shown in the accompanying drawings. As another example, the first deformable portion 3300a can be directly connected to the first heater 3210, so that the heat generated by the first heater 3210 is directly transferred to the first deformable portion 3300a. As yet another example, the temperature of the first heater 3210 is monitored by a temperature sensor (not shown), and the control unit supplies power to the first deformable portion 3300a according to the temperature change of the first heater 3210, thereby heating the first deformable portion 3300a.

[0300] The relationship between the first heater 3210 and the first deformed part 3300a described above can also be applied to the relationship between the second heater 3220 and the second deformed part 3300b, and between the third heater 3230 and the third deformed part 3300c.

[0301] The first deformable portion 3300a can act as a switch to activate the second heater 3220. When the first deformable portion 3300a bends due to heat, the first heater 3210, the first deformable portion 3300a, and the second heater 3220 can be electrically connected. This allows power to be supplied from the first heater 3210 to the second heater 3220.

[0302] The second heater 3220, which is supplied with electricity, can generate heat after being activated. The heat generated by the second heater 3220 can cause the second deformable part 3300b to deform, however, Figure 13c The image shows a state where the second deformable part 3300b has not yet deformed after the second heater 3220 has been heated for a sufficient period of time.

[0303] With the second deformed portion 3300b in its unbent state, the second heater 3220 and the third heater 3230 are in an open state where they are not electrically connected. Therefore, no power is supplied from the second heater 3220 to the third heater 3230. Furthermore, no current flows from the second heater 3220 to the second deformed portion 3300b.

[0304] Reference Figure 13d The second deformable portion 3300b can be deformed by the heat generated by the second heater 3220. The temperature of the second deformable portion 3300b can change in response to the temperature change of the second heater 3220. Specifically, the temperature of the second deformable portion 3300b can change in response to the temperature change of the second heater 3220, thereby allowing the second deformable portion 3300b to deform.

[0305] The second deformable portion 3300b can act as a switch to activate the third heater 3230. When the second deformable portion 3300b bends due to heat, the second heater 3220, the second deformable portion 3300b, and the third heater 3230 can be electrically connected. This allows power to be supplied from the second heater 3220 to the third heater 3230.

[0306] The third heater 3230, which is supplied with electricity, can generate heat when activated. The heat generated by the third heater 3230 can cause the third deformable part 3300c to deform, but... Figure 13d The image shows a state where the second deformable part 3300b has not yet deformed after the third heater 3230 has been heated for a sufficient period of time.

[0307] With the third deformed section 3300c in its unbent state, the third heater 3230 and the fourth heater 3240 are in an open state where they are not electrically connected. Therefore, no power is supplied from the third heater 3230 to the fourth heater 3240. Furthermore, no current flows from the third heater 3230 to the third deformed section 3300c.

[0308] Reference Figure 13e The third deformable portion 3300c can be deformed by the heat generated in the third heater 3230. The third deformable portion 3300c can deform in response to temperature changes in the third heater 3230. Specifically, the temperature of the third deformable portion 3300c can change in response to the temperature of the third heater 3230, thereby allowing the third deformable portion 3300c to deform.

[0309] The third deformable part 3300c can act as a switch to activate the fourth heater 3240. When the third deformable part 3300c bends due to heat, the third heater 3230, the third deformable part 3300c, and the fourth heater 3240 can be electrically connected. This allows power to be supplied from the third heater 3230 to the fourth heater 3240.

[0310] The fourth heater 3240, which is supplied with electricity, can generate heat when activated. This allows all heaters 3200 to be activated sequentially. As shown in the accompanying drawings, one heater 3200 activates an adjacent heater 3200 via a deformation portion 3300; however, the embodiment is not limited to activating adjacent heaters 3200. Even if another heater 3200 is physically separated, as long as it is electrically connected via the deformation portion 3300, the corresponding heater 3200 can be activated.

[0311] According to the embodiment, multiple heaters 3200 are activated sequentially, thereby gradually increasing the heated area in the aerosol generating article. This prevents the entire area of ​​the medium from being heated in a short period of time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0312] As the aerosol generating device 1 is discontinued and the temperature of the heater 3200 and the deformable part 3300 decreases, the enlarged and bent deformable part 3300 can then contract and expand again. This allows the two electrically connected heaters 3200 to be electrically reconnected.

[0313] When the user uses the aerosol generating device 1 again, the deformable part 3300 can be bent due to heat, and multiple heaters 3200 can be activated in sequence.

[0314] On the other hand, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to yet another embodiment may also include a heat insulation member 3400. The heat insulation member 3400, indicated by a double-dotted line, prevents heat transfer between the heater 3200 and the deformable portion 3300, which are not connected to each other. For example, the heat insulation member 3400 cuts off heat, thereby preventing heat generated by the first heater 3210 from being transferred to the second deformable portion 3300b instead of the first deformable portion 3300a.

[0315] Figure 14a as well as Figure 14b These are perspective views showing multiple heaters activated sequentially.

[0316] Reference Figure 14a as well as Figure 14b The image shows an aerosol generating article 2 enclosed by multiple heaters 3200 and heaters 3200.

[0317] Figure 14a as well as Figure 14b At least one of the constituent elements of the heater 3200 shown can be with Figures 13a to 13e At least one of the constituent elements of the heater 3200 shown is the same or similar, and repeated descriptions are omitted below.

[0318] Reference Figure 14aMultiple heaters 3200 are arranged along the length of the aerosol generating article 2. After the multiple heaters 3200 are activated sequentially, the heated area in the aerosol generating article 2 gradually increases from the top to the bottom, thus preventing the entire area of ​​the medium from being heated in a short time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0319] Reference Figure 14b Multiple heaters 3200 are arranged circumferentially in the aerosol generating article 2. After the multiple heaters 3200 are activated sequentially, the heated area in the aerosol generating article 2 gradually increases along the circumferential direction, thus preventing the entire area of ​​the medium from being heated in a short time, so that the user can inhale a uniform amount of aerosol during the use of the aerosol generating device.

[0320] According to several embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus, a deformable section is applied to the heater, thereby enabling uniform aerosol generation during user use of the aerosol generating apparatus. This enhances user satisfaction with smoking.

[0321] 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.

[0322] 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.

[0323] 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 housing includes an insertion space for containing articles generated by aerosols; One or more heaters for heating the aerosol-generating article inserted into the insertion space; and The deformable part deforms in response to the temperature change caused by one or more of the aforementioned heaters. As the aforementioned deformable portion deforms, the heating area of ​​the aforementioned one or more heaters on the aforementioned aerosol-generating article changes.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned heater is one or more of the aforementioned deformed parts.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, As the aforementioned deformable portion deforms, the shape of one or more of the aforementioned heaters changes.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned one or more heaters include a first heater that is fixed and a second heater that is disposed above or below the first heater and is movable. The second heater is connected to the deformable part, so that it can move as the deformable part deforms.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The second heater moves between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position separated from the aerosol generating article housed in the insertion space, and the second position is a position in contact with the aerosol generating article housed in the insertion space.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, It also includes a track that guides the movement of the second heater.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, One end of the aforementioned deformed portion is fixed. The other end of the aforementioned deformed portion is connected to the aforementioned second heater. During the period when the temperature rises through the second heater, the deformable part pressurizes the second heater, causing it to move toward the insertion space.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The aforementioned deformable part includes a plate-shaped coil shape. The aforementioned aerosol generating device also includes: A connecting portion connects the first heater and one end of the deformable portion to transfer the heat generated by the first heater to the deformable portion.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The aforementioned heaters include a third heater that is fixed in place. The aforementioned deformable portion is disposed facing the first heater and the third heater. One end of the aforementioned deformed portion and the other end of the aforementioned deformed portion are fixed. The second heater is disposed between the first heater and the third heater at the center of the deformed portion. During the period when the temperature rises through the second heater, the deformable part pressurizes the second heater, causing it to move toward the insertion space.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, As the aforementioned deformable portion deforms, one or more of the aforementioned heaters move, thereby causing a change in the heated portion of the aforementioned aerosol-generating article.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, One end of the aforementioned deformed portion is fixed. The other end of the aforementioned deformed portion is connected to the outer side of one or more of the aforementioned heaters. The aforementioned one or more heaters can move in the longitudinal or circumferential direction by deforming the aforementioned deformable portion.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, It also includes a support portion that supports the outer side of one or more of the aforementioned heaters. The aforementioned support portion includes a guide hole connecting the aforementioned deformable portion and one or more of the aforementioned heaters.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, It also includes a protrusion that protrudes from the outer side of one or more of the heaters, thereby engaging with the guide hole. One end of the aforementioned deformed portion is fixed. The other end of the aforementioned deformed portion is connected to the aforementioned protrusion.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned heater includes a first heater and a second heater. The aforementioned deformable portion includes a first deformable portion that functions as a thermal switch: it deforms in response to temperature changes caused by the first heater, so as to supply power to the second heater.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 14, wherein, The aforementioned heaters may also include a third heater. The aforementioned deformable section also includes a second deformable section that functions as a thermal switch: it deforms in response to temperature changes caused by the second heater, thereby supplying electricity to the third heater. The aforementioned aerosol generating apparatus further includes a heat insulation component for preventing heat generated in the first heater from being transferred to the second deformable portion.

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