Aerosol-generating device comprising a damper

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device can include an actuator including a motor configured to generate vibrations related to device heating or status, an electrical wire physically and electrically connected with the motor, and a motor bridge connected with the motor and surrounding the electrical wire, a securing rib including a first rib portion extending along a side of the motor and a second rib portion extending along the motor bridge, and a damper including a first resilient portion between the motor and the first rib portion and a second resilient portion between the motor bridge and the second rib portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, for example, to an aerosol generating apparatus including a damper. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating apparatus is being developed, comprising a motor configured to generate vibrations related to heating or state of the apparatus. The vibrations generated by the motor are transmitted to more than one component of the aerosol generating apparatus and may cause noise in these components. The aforementioned background technology was acquired or learned by the inventors during the development of this invention and should not be construed as necessarily being generally known technology disclosed prior to this application. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Technical problems to be solved

[0004] One aspect of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating apparatus that reduces noise and provides users with a smooth vibration experience.

[0005] Technical methods for solving problems

[0006] The aerosol generating device may include: an actuator comprising a motor configured to generate vibrations related to heating or state of the device, wires physically and electrically connected to the motor, and a motor bridge connected to and surrounding the motor; a fixing rib comprising a first rib portion extending along one side of the motor and a second rib portion extending along the motor bridge; and a damper comprising a first elastic portion located between the motor and the first rib portion, and a second elastic portion located between the motor bridge and the second rib portion.

[0007] The first elastic portion can extend along the entire circumference of the motor.

[0008] The first elastic portion is configured to contact the first rib portion.

[0009] The first elastic portion is configured to be elastically deformable and to engage tightly with the motor.

[0010] The second elastic portion can extend along the entire side of the motor bridge.

[0011] The second elastic portion may have a gap between it and the second rib portion and be spaced apart from each other.

[0012] The second elastic portion may have a gap between it and the motor bridge and be spaced apart from each other.

[0013] The damper may also include a third elastic portion disposed on the base surface of the motor.

[0014] The damper may also include a hole disposed in the third elastic portion.

[0015] The first rib portion may extend along the entire circumference of the motor and connect with the second rib portion.

[0016] The aerosol generating device may further include a housing. The motor may be disposed on the end face of the housing.

[0017] The height from the end face of the housing to the first elastic portion may be greater than the height from the end face of the housing to the second elastic portion.

[0018] The second elastic portion may include: a first region inclined relative to an end face of the housing; and a second region inclined relative to an end face of the housing. The inclination of the first region may be less than the inclination of the second region.

[0019] The height from the end face of the housing to the first rib can be substantially constant along the length of the first rib. The second rib can be inclined relative to the end face of the housing.

[0020] The aerosol generating device may further include: a fixing part disposed on the end face of the housing; and a connecting rib connecting the first rib portion and the fixing part.

[0021] Invention Effects

[0022] According to one embodiment, noise generated by the aerosol generating device can be reduced. According to one embodiment, vibrations transmitted from the motor to other components can be attenuated. According to one embodiment, vibrations with a desired frequency range can be transmitted to the user, thereby providing a smooth vibration feel. The effects of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of specific embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

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

[0026] Figure 2b An aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment is shown.

[0027] Figure 3This is a side view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a rear perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a rear view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment along line 6-6.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment along line 7-7. Detailed Implementation

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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).

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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).

[0048] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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 if 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: susceptor) 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.

[0057] The insertion sensing sensor is not limited to the examples described above and can be implemented by various sensors (e.g., proximity sensors, etc.) 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 a press generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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. of alternating current) 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] According to one embodiment, a cover sensing sensor can sense the installation and / or removal of a cover. For example, the cover 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 cover 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 cover is installed in or removed from the housing, the cover 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 cover based on the signal corresponding to the installation or removal.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] 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 a sound output unit. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 may include the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11, the preheating status of the heaters 18 and 24, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cover, or a status where the use of the aerosol generating device 1 is restricted (e.g., an abnormal object is 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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).

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heaters 18, 24 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heaters 18, 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, 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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., discharge). 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating article 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.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heaters 18 and 24 based on whether the aerosol-generating 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).

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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 detection 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can send data about the status of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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), and may also contain a variety of other substances. For example, the additive may contain flavoring agents and / or organic acids, and may also 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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.

[0110] According to one embodiment, heaters 182 and 183 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0111] Reference Figure 2a Heater 182 can be an internal heating type heater.

[0112] 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.

[0113] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the induction heating element is arranged (or contained) inside the aerosol generating article 2 (e.g., the medium section), and can be implemented to heat the induction heating element contained inside the aerosol generating article 2 based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181.

[0118] Reference Figure 2b Heater 183 can be an external heating type heater.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] and Figure 2a or Figure 2b The situation shown is different, Figure 2a heater 182 and Figure 2b The heater 183 can be included in the aerosol generating apparatus 1. In this case, the heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0123] 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).

[0124] As used herein, terms such as “substantially,” “approximately,” “generally,” and “about” when referring to a given parameter, property, or condition can include the degree to which a person skilled in the art would understand that the given parameter, property, or condition is satisfied within a small range of deviations (e.g., within acceptable manufacturing tolerances). For example, a particular parameter that is substantially satisfied could be satisfied by at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%.

[0125] Figure 3 This is a side view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a rear perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 5 This is a rear view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment along line 6-6. Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment along line 7-7.

[0126] Reference Figures 3 to 7 The aerosol generating device 300 may include an actuator 330 configured to generate vibrations related to device heating or device status. For example, the actuator 330 may include an actuator configured to generate vibrations below a specific frequency band, or an actuator configured to generate vibrations greater than or equal to a specific frequency band (e.g., a haptic actuator). The aerosol generating device 300 can reduce noise between interconnected components when the vibrations generated by the actuator 330 are transmitted to the user through one or more components directly or indirectly connected to the actuator 330, thereby providing the user with a smooth vibration experience.

[0127] The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a housing 310. The housing 310 may be configured to house at least one component (e.g., a heater) associated with the aerosol generating apparatus 300. The housing 310 may include a first cover 312 disposed on a first end face (e.g., a +Z direction face or an open end face) of the housing 310 and a second cover 314 disposed on a second end face 316 (e.g., a -Z direction face or an apparatus end face) of the housing 310 opposite to the first end face.

[0128] The aerosol generating apparatus 300 may include a window 320. The window 320 may include a glass material. A display screen located within the housing 310 can be viewed through the window 320.

[0129] The aerosol generating device 300 may include an actuator 330. The actuator 330 may be disposed on the second end face 316 of the housing 310. By disposing of the actuator 330 on the second end face 316 of the housing 310, the aerosol generating device 300 can be designed to the required size, while also meeting the requirements of components such as batteries and heaters disposed within the housing 310.

[0130] The actuator 330 may include: a motor 332 configured to generate vibrations related to device heating or state; a plurality of wires 334 physically and electrically connected to the motor 332; and a motor bridge 336 extending radially from the motor 332 and surrounding the plurality of wires 334. The plurality of wires 334 may be connected from the motor 332 to a printed circuit board located inside the housing 310 along a second end face 316. The motor bridge 336 may at least partially protect the plurality of wires 334 exposed outside the housing 310.

[0131] The aerosol generating device 300 may include a retaining rib 340 for securing the actuator 330 to the housing 310. The retaining rib 340 may include: a first rib portion 342 extending along the side of the motor 332 (e.g., the circumferential surface relative to the Z-axis); and a plurality of second rib portions 344 respectively connected to both ends of the first rib portion 342 and extending along both sides of the motor bridge 334.

[0132] The first rib portion 342 may extend circumferentially along the side of the motor 332. The first rib portion 342 may be continuous. The first rib portion 342 may include multiple segments. Multiple second rib portions 344 may partially surround the side of the motor bridge 334. The first rib portion 342 and the multiple second rib portions 344 may secure the motor 332 and the motor bridge 334 in place.

[0133] A first rib portion 342 and a plurality of second rib portions 344 may protrude from a second end face 316 of the housing 310. The first rib portion 342 and the plurality of second rib portions 344 may be seamlessly integrally connected to the second end face 316.

[0134] The first height H11 from the second end face 316 of the housing 310 to the first rib portion 342 can remain substantially constant along the entire length of the first rib portion 342. The second height H12 from the second end face 316 of the housing 310 to the second rib portion 344 can vary along the entire length of the second rib portion 344. For example, the second height H12 can be maximum at the point where the end of the second rib portion 344 connects to the end of the first rib portion 342, and gradually decrease in a direction away from that point. The first height H11 can be substantially equal to or greater than the second height H12. The first rib portion 342 can be substantially parallel to the second end face 316. The second rib portion 344 can be inclined relative to the second end face 316.

[0135] The aerosol generating device 300 may include: a fixing portion 344 configured to secure a fixing rib 340 to a housing 310; and a connecting rib 346 connecting the fixing portion 344 and the fixing rib 340. For example, the fixing portion 344 may include a mounting base protruding from a second end face 316 of the housing 310 and a screw coupled to the mounting base. The mounting base may include a hole with internal threads, and the screw may include external threads engaging with the internal threads. The connecting rib 346 may extend outwardly from the outer side of a first rib portion 342. The height of the connecting rib 346 may be less than the height of the first rib portion 342. The aerosol generating device 300 may include a plurality of fixing portions 344 and a plurality of connecting ribs 346.

[0136] The aerosol generating device 300 may include a damper 350 for reducing noise that may be generated when vibrations generated by the actuator 330 are transmitted to the user through more than one other component, and for attenuating vibrations transmitted from the actuator 330 to other components. For the motor 332 to function properly, elastic materials (e.g., high-density polyurethane foam (PORON)) and structures partially covering the upper and lower ends of the motor 332 may cause the motor 332 to vibrate with a rotational component, thus potentially requiring prevention of rotation of the motor bridge 334. The advantage of the damper 350 is that it allows vibrations of a specified frequency from the actuator 330 to be transmitted to the user, thereby providing the user with a smooth vibration experience.

[0137] The damper 350 may include a first elastic portion 352 located between the motor 332 and the first rib portion 342, and a plurality of second elastic portions 354 respectively connected to both ends of the first elastic portion 352 and located between each side of the motor bridge 334 and the second rib portion 344. The damper 350 may surround the motor 332 and the motor bridge 334 such that when the rotating parts of the motor 332 vibrate, the motor bridge 334, which is physically connected to the motor 332, rotates about the rotation axis (e.g., the Z-axis) of the motor 332, thereby preventing contact between the motor bridge 334 and the second rib portion 344 and reducing noise that may be generated between the actuator 330 and the fixed rib 340.

[0138] The first elastic portion 352 may be disposed only between the side surface of the motor 332 and the inner surface of the first rib portion 342. The first elastic portion 352 may extend along the entire circumference of the side surface of the motor 332. The first elastic portion 352 may be continuous.

[0139] Each of the second elastic portions 354 may be disposed only between the side surface of the motor bridge 334 and the inner surface of the second rib portion 344. Each of the second elastic portions 354 may surround the entire side surface of the motor bridge 334.

[0140] The damper 350 may include a third elastic portion 356 disposed between a groove 318 on the second end face 316 of the motor 332 and the housing 310. The third elastic portion 356 may serve as a base portion and connect the first elastic portion 352 and the second elastic portion 354. The first elastic portion 352, the second elastic portion 354, and the third elastic portion 356 may define an inner cavity configured to at least partially accommodate the motor 332 and the motor bridge 334. The first elastic portion 352, the second elastic portion 354, and the third elastic portion 356 may be integrally and seamlessly connected.

[0141] The damper 350 may include a hole 357 located in a third elastic portion 356. The hole 357 may be located in a portion of the third elastic portion 356, wherein the third elastic portion 356 is disposed between the motor 332 and the groove 318. The hole 357 may increase the space for the damper 350 to undergo elastic deformation.

[0142] When the first elastic portion 352 is coupled to the motor 332, the first elastic portion 352 can undergo elastic deformation (e.g., compression) and tightly engage with the side of the motor 332 (e.g., without gaps), such that the first elastic portion 352 overlaps with the motor 332 before elastic deformation occurs. The surface of the first elastic portion 352 in contact with the motor 332 can elastically move toward the surface in contact with the first rib portion 342. In the state where the first elastic portion 352 is tightly engaged with the side of the motor 332, a stepped portion 358 that engages with the shape of the motor 332 can be formed between the first elastic portion 352 and the third elastic portion 356.

[0143] A gap may be provided between the second elastic portion 354 and the motor bridge 336, and they may be spaced apart from each other. A gap may also be provided between the second elastic portion 354 and the second rib portion 344, and they may be spaced apart from each other. The gap between the second elastic portion 354 and the second rib portion 344 may be substantially equal to or greater than the gap between the second elastic portion 354 and the motor bridge 336. When the motor 332 vibrates, the gap between the second elastic portion 354 and the second rib portion 344 can reduce the transmission of vibration from the motor 332 to the second rib portion 344 via the motor bridge 336.

[0144] The damper 350 may include an elastically deformable material. For example, the damper 350 may include rubber.

[0145] The third height H21 from the second end face 316 of the housing 310 to the first elastic portion 352 can remain substantially constant along the entire length of the first elastic portion 352. The first elastic portion 352 can be substantially parallel to the second end face 316. The fourth height H22 from the second end face 316 of the housing 310 to the second elastic portion 354 can vary along the entire length of the second elastic portion 354. For example, the second elastic portion 354 may include a first region connected to the first elastic portion 352 and having a variable height and inclined relative to the second end face 316, and a second region connected to the first region and having a decreasing height and inclined relative to the second end face 316. The inclination of the first region may be less than the inclination of the second region. Again, for example, the height of the first region can remain substantially constant, while the height of the second region can be variable. The third height H21 can be substantially equal to or less than the fourth height H22.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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 device, characterized in that, include: An actuator comprising a motor configured to generate vibrations related to the heating or state of the device, wires physically and electrically connected to the motor, and a motor bridge connected to the motor and surrounding the wires; A fixing rib, comprising a first rib portion extending along one side of the motor and a second rib portion extending along the motor bridge; and The damper includes a first elastic portion located between the motor and the first rib portion, and a second elastic portion located between the motor bridge and the second rib portion.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic portion extends along the entire circumference of the motor.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic portion is configured to contact the first rib portion.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first elastic portion is configured to be elastically deformable and tightly engaged with the motor.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second elastic portion extends along the entire side of the motor bridge.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second elastic portion and the second rib portion are spaced apart by a gap.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second elastic portion has a gap between it and the motor bridge and is spaced apart from each other.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The damper also includes a third elastic portion disposed on the base surface of the motor.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The damper also includes an orifice disposed in the third elastic portion.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first rib extends along the entire circumference of the motor and connects to the second rib.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the casing, The motor is located on the end face of the housing.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The height from the end face of the housing to the first elastic portion is greater than the height from the end face of the housing to the second elastic portion.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second elastic portion includes: A first region, which is inclined relative to the end face of the housing; and The second region is inclined relative to the end face of the housing. The inclination of the first region is less than that of the second region.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The height from the end face of the housing to the first rib is substantially constant along the length of the first rib. The second rib portion is inclined relative to the end face of the housing.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: A fixing part is provided on the end face of the housing; as well as A connecting rib that connects the first rib portion and the fixing portion.

Images