Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating device includes a housing including an opening into which an aerosol generating article is insertable, a door body movable with respect to the housing to open and close the opening, and a bearing between the door body and the housing and configured to movably support movement of the door body with respect to the housing by rotation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus that includes a door body with improved durability and smooth operation. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, there has been a growing demand for alternatives to overcome the drawbacks of conventional cigarettes. For example, there is an increasing need for systems that use aerosol generating devices to heat cigarettes or aerosol-generating substances to generate aerosols, rather than burning cigarettes to generate aerosols.

[0003] The door of the aerosol generating device can be opened or closed to accommodate the aerosol-generating article. The door can prevent external foreign matter from entering the interior of the aerosol generating device, and can also function to open the space accommodating the aerosol-generating article during the use of the aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The problem the invention aims to solve The door is designed to move relative to the housing of the aerosol generator. Therefore, to ensure smooth operation of the door, it is preferable to minimize mechanical friction between the door and the housing, as well as interference between components. With repeated use, some components of the aerosol generator related to the door's operation may wear or become damaged. When these components wear or become damaged, the door may malfunction or fail to operate.

[0005] An embodiment provides an aerosol generating apparatus including a door body that operates smoothly.

[0006] Additionally, the embodiments provide an aerosol generating apparatus for a door that minimizes wear or damage to components related to the operation of the door.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned technical problems. Those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand the unstated technical problems from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0008] Additional aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, which may be learned by practice of the embodiments or will be apparent from the description.

[0009] means for solving problems According to one aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a housing including an opening into which an aerosol generating article can be inserted; a door body movable relative to the housing to open and close the opening; and a bearing located between the door body and the housing and configured to movably support the door body relative to the housing by rotation.

[0010] Invention Effects According to the aerosol generating apparatus associated with the embodiments, the door can open or close the opening by moving relative to the housing.

[0011] According to the aerosol generating apparatus associated with the embodiment, since the door is supported by bearings, smooth movement of the door can be achieved.

[0012] Furthermore, the structure in which the door body is movably supported by bearings minimizes direct friction between the door body and the housing. Therefore, even with repeated use, wear and damage to components related to the door's movement are minimized.

[0013] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above. Those skilled in the art to which the embodiments pertain can clearly understand the effects not mentioned from this specification and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The above, other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the description provided below.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus according to yet another embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 4 Is with Figure 3 A perspective view of the aerosol generating apparatus related to the illustrated embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 It is a breakdown showing the relationship with Figure 5 A perspective view of the components of the door assembly of the aerosol generating device associated with the illustrated embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 Is with Figure 5 A longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus associated with the illustrated embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A longitudinal sectional view of the door of the aerosol generating device in other working states.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus shown.

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus shown.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus related to yet another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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).

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] Unless the context clearly indicates that they have different meanings, the singular form of a statement covers the plural form of a statement.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment.

[0039] 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 a heater 18. 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a temperature sensor can sense the temperature at which the heater 18 is heated. The aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include a separate temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the heater 18, or the heater 18 itself may function as a temperature sensor. As an example, the temperature sensor can be used to measure the impedance of the heater 18. The impedance of the heater 18 may be correlated with the temperature of the heater 18. The temperature sensor can measure the current and / or voltage applied to the heater 18 (or induction coil). Based on the measured current and / or voltage, the impedance of the heater 18 can be calculated. The control unit 12 can estimate the temperature of the heater 18 based on the calculated impedance.

[0042] 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 heater 18. 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 heater 18 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0043] As another example, the temperature sensor may include a sensor that detects the resistance value of the heater 18. The temperature sensor may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the heater 18, and the control unit 12 may detect the temperature and / or temperature change of the heater 18 based on the aforementioned signal corresponding to the resistance value.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the suction sensor can sense the user's suction.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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), the heater 18, etc. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the signal output from the temperature sensor corresponding to the temperature of the airflow channel, etc.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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 perimeter of the insertion space.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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 geomagnetic 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.

[0067] 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 heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge, the installation and / or removal status of the cap, 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.

[0068] 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 heater 18. 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.

[0069] According to one embodiment, heater 18 receives power from power source 11, thereby enabling it to heat the aerosol generating article and / or the medium and / or aerosol generating substance within the cartridge. Aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include heater 18 for heating the aerosol generating article and / or cartridge heater for heating the cartridge (i.e., the solid and / or liquid medium).

[0070] According to one embodiment, heater 18 can be a resistance heater. For example, a resistance heater may 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. The resistance heater can be implemented using a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate with conductive tracks, or a ceramic heating element.

[0071] According to one embodiment, heater 18 may be an induction heating heater. 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 cause the induction coil to generate a magnetic field. 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 the aerosol generating article (e.g., the medium section). In this case, the induction heating element included inside the aerosol generating article can also be heated by an induction coil.

[0072] The heater 18 is 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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 unit (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.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by supplying power to the heater 18 via the control power supply 11. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 and / or the power supplied to the heater 18 based on the temperature of the heater 18 sensed by a temperature sensor (e.g., sensor unit 13). The control unit 12 can also control the temperature of the heater 18 and / or the power supplied to the heater 18 based on temperature curves and / or power curves stored in the memory 17.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power (e.g., voltage and / or current) supplied to the heater 18 by controlling a power conversion circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the heater 18 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 heater 18, 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.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can regulate the current and / or voltage supplied to the heater 18 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.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 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 heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 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 heater 18, which is a feedback control method based on the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the integral value of the difference over time, and the derivative value of the difference over time.

[0081] 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 heater 18 to correspond to the preset target power.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can detect the user's suction by sensing the power supplied to the heater 18. More specifically, the control unit 12 can use a PID control method to control the power supplied to the heater 18. When the 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 heater 18, etc. Therefore, during the PID power control, the power (or current) supplied to the heater 18 may change. The control unit 12 can detect the user's suction based on the controlled power change.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can prevent the heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit based on the temperature of the heater 18 exceeding a preset limit temperature, so as to reduce the power supplied to the heater 18 or interrupt the power supply to the heater 18.

[0084] 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.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 13.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 heater 18. 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 heater 18. If the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature or the temperature change slope of the heater 18 is above a set slope, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating article has been removed from the insertion space.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 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 to the heater 18 (e.g., preheating time).

[0088] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 heater 18.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 detached state, the control unit 12 can control the interruption of the power supply to the heater 18 or prevent the supply of power to the heater 18.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the temperature of the heater 18 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period of the heater 18 (i.e., the preheating interval), it can determine that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted. In the case that the aerosol-generating material of the cartridge is depleted, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the heater 18.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 based on whether the 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 cartridge, it can determine that the cartridge cannot be used. Alternatively, the control unit 12 can determine that the cartridge cannot be used if the total heating time of the heater 18 exceeds a preset maximum time or the total electrical power supplied to the heater 18 exceeds a preset maximum electrical power. In this case, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 to be interrupted or not to be supplied with power to the heater 18.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 heater 18. When suction is sensed, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 heater 18. 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 heater 18. As another example, the control unit 12 can control the power supply to the heater 18 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 heater 18 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 heater 18 based on a second temperature curve (or second power curve).

[0094] 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 heater 18 in a visual, tactile, and / or audible manner.

[0095] 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 the heater 18, sensing overvoltage applied to the heater 18, 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 that the heater 18 is detected to be overheating, the log data corresponding to the event may include data about the temperature of the heater 18, the voltage applied to the heater 18, the current flowing in the heater 18, etc.

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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 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 may also be included in an aerosol-generating device 1 that can be separated from the cartridge.

[0105] Figure 2 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 3 An aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to another embodiment is shown. Figure 4 It is based on Figure 3 A perspective view of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 of the illustrated embodiment.

[0106] 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 a heater 18 (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. Figures 2 to 4 The constituent elements shown can be omitted or new constituent elements can be added. Figure 2 The aerosol generating device 1 shown can be referred to as an "internal heating type" aerosol generating device that heats the inside of the aerosol generating article 2. Figure 3 and Figure 4 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.

[0107] 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 the insertion space 10s. The insertion space 10s may be recessed towards the interior of the housing 10 to a predetermined depth, enabling the 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.

[0108] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The housing 10 may include an outer surface 10u to which the door 20 is attached. An opening 10a that opens to the outside may be formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10. The insertion space 10s of the aerosol generating device 1 communicates with the opening 10a. At least a portion of the aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted into the insertion space 10s inside the aerosol generating device 1 through the opening 10a.

[0109] Reference Figure 4 The insertion space 10s may include an air inlet 10g, which allows external air to flow into the aerosol generating device 1.

[0110] Reference Figures 2 to 4 The aerosol generating device 1 may include: a door 20, with an open or closed opening 10a. The door 20 may be movable relative to the housing 10.

[0111] Reference Figure 4 A guide hole 30g may be formed on the outer surface 10u of the aerosol generating device 1. The guide hole 30g can extend along the moving direction of the door body 20. The door body 20 can be guided by the guide hole 30g to move along the outer surface 10u.

[0112] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the diagram, the door 20, shown in solid line, is in the closed position of the closed opening 10a. The door 20, shown in dashed line, is in the open position of the open opening 10a.

[0113] A bearing 30 may be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The bearing 30 can support the door body 20 so that the door body 20 can move relative to the housing 10. During the movement of the door body 20 relative to the housing 10, the bearing 30 can support the door body 20 by rotation.

[0114] According to the above embodiment, since the door body 20 is supported by the bearing 30, the door body 20 can move smoothly relative to the housing 10. By utilizing the structure that movably supports the door body 20 with the bearing 30, direct friction between the door body 20 and the housing 10 can be minimized. Therefore, even if the door body 20 is used repeatedly, wear and damage to components related to the operation of the door body 20 can be minimized.

[0115] According to one embodiment, heater 18 can heat the aerosol-generated article 2.

[0116] Reference Figure 2 The heater 18 may include an internal heating type heater 182.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the internally heated heater 182 can extend relatively far upward within the space where the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space 10s). 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.

[0118] According to one embodiment, an internally heated heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0119] 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.

[0120] For example, for an induction heating heater, the aerosol generating device 1 may include an induction coil 181 surrounding at least a portion of the internal heating type heater 182 (e.g., arranged externally in a manner corresponding to at least a portion of the length of the heater). 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 181. The induction heating heater may include an induction heating element (susceptor) and may generate heat based on the magnetic field generated from the induction coil 181. According to one embodiment, the induction heating heater (182, e.g., the induction heating element) (or a heater module including it) may be arranged to be detachable from the housing 10.

[0121] According to one embodiment, heater 18 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 18 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 18. In addition, heaters and / or induction coils may include three or more.

[0122] 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.

[0123] Reference Figure 3 The heater 18 may include an external heating type heater 183.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater 183 can extend relatively long upward around the periphery of the space where the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted (i.e., the insertion space 10s). For example, the external heating type heater 183 can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 10s. As an example, the external heating type heater 183 can include a tubular shape (e.g., cylindrical) with a hollow interior. The external heating type heater 183 can also include a shape with a hollow interior that surrounds the hollow space. In this case, the external heating type heater 183 can be supported by a polyimide film. A heater supported by such a film can be referred to as a film heater. The external heating type heater can be arranged to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The external heating type heater 183 is capable of heating the outside of the aerosol generating article 2 inserted into the insertion space 10s.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the external heating type heater may include a resistance heater and / or an induction heater, and the terms related to... will be omitted. Figure 2 To reiterate. Furthermore, for induction heating heaters, the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may include an external heating type heater 183 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 183 (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 183 is a resistance heater, since heating can be achieved by current flowing through the tubular resistance heater (e.g., a thin-film heater), the separate induction coil 181 can be omitted. Additionally, insulating material may be arranged on the exterior of the external heating type heater 183. This reduces the heat dissipated from the heater 183 in the radially outward direction and applied to the exterior of the housing 10.

[0126] According to one embodiment, heater 18 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 18 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 a heater 18.

[0127] and Figure 2 or Figure 3 The situation shown is different, Figure 2 Internal heating type heater 182 and Figure 3 The external heating type heater 183 can be included together with the aerosol generating device 1. In this case, the internal heating type heater 182 can heat the inside of the aerosol generating article 2, and the external heating type heater 183 can heat the outside of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0128] 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).

[0129] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 related to yet another embodiment. Figure 6 It is a breakdown showing the relationship with Figure 5 A perspective view of the components of the door assembly 10b of the aerosol generating device 1 in the illustrated embodiment. Figure 7 Is with Figure 5 A longitudinal sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with the illustrated embodiment.

[0130] The housing 10 of the aerosol generating device 1 may include: a mounting port 10f, open to the outside; and a door assembly 10b, mounted on the mounting port 10f. The housing 10 may have, for example, a hollow cylindrical structure. The mounting port 10f is formed at one end of the housing 10 and opens to the outside. The door assembly 10b mounted on the mounting port 10f may support the door 20 in a manner that allows the door 20 to move relative to the housing 10.

[0131] The door assembly 10b may include an upper plate 10m and a lower plate 10k. The upper plate 10m includes an outer surface 10u to which the door body 20 is attached. The upper plate 10m includes a protrusion 38 projecting downwards onto the lower plate 10k. The lower plate 10k includes a mating groove 38h that engages with the protrusion 38. The protrusion 38 may include a hook that engages with the mating groove 38h to maintain the upper plate 10m in contact with the housing 10. When the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k are engaged, the protrusion 38 is supported by the mating groove 38h, thereby securely maintaining the engagement of the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k.

[0132] The upper plate 10m includes an opening 10a and can movably support the door 20. The door 20 can move along the outer surface 10u of the upper plate 10m.

[0133] The lower plate 10k includes an internal opening 10d communicating with the opening 10a. A bearing support 30s for supporting the bearing 30 can be disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k. When the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k are joined, a movable space is formed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k, which allows the bearing support 30s to be disposed.

[0134] One side of the bearing support 30s can be connected to the door body 20. The door body 20 may include a connecting shaft 20p. The bearing support 30s may include a connecting shaft 30p corresponding to the connecting shaft 20p. Bolts 35 can be connected to the connecting shaft 20p via the connecting shaft 30p, and the door body 20 and the bearing support 30s can be connected via bolts 35.

[0135] The upper plate 10m may include a guide hole 30g for guiding the movement of the door body 20. The guide hole 30g extends along the direction of movement (X-axis direction) of the door body 20. The door body 20 and the bearing support 30s can be connected through the guide hole 30g. For example, the connecting shaft 20p of the door body 20 is connected to the bearing support 30s through the guide hole 30g.

[0136] A guide member 39 is disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k to guide the movement of the bearing support 30s. The guide member 39 can extend along the moving direction (X-axis direction) of the door body 20. The guide member 39 can guide the bearing support 30s to perform linear movement. For example, the bearing support 30s may include a linear protrusion 32 protruding from the side of the bearing support 30s, and the guide member 39 may include a linear groove 39g into which the linear protrusion 32 is inserted. The linear protrusion 32 can extend along the extending direction of the guide member 39. With the linear protrusion 32 inserted into the linear groove 39g, the bearing support 30s can move linearly along the guide member 39.

[0137] When the door 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing support 30s supports the bearing 30 so that the bearing 30 rotates.

[0138] The upper plate 10m may include stops 36a and 36b protruding toward the lower plate 10k. The lower plate 10k may include fixed protrusions 37a and 37b protruding upwards from the upper plate 10m and engaging with the stops 36a and 36b. The stops 36a and 36b can restrict the linear movement of the bearing support 30s by contacting it.

[0139] Multiple bearings 30 may be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The bearing support portion 30s may include a bearing receiving space 31 for accommodating the bearings 30. The bearing receiving space 31 extends along the extending direction of the door body 20. The multiple bearings 30 may be arranged sequentially along the moving direction of the door body 20. The lower plate 10k may include a movement guide portion 33 that contacts a portion of the surface of the bearing 30 that moves with the door body 20 and guides the movement of the bearing 30. When the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearings 30 may move and rotate with the door body 20.

[0140] The bearing 30 may be spherical. The embodiments are not limited to the structure of the bearing 30. For example, the bearing 30 may be cylindrical.

[0141] Reference Figure 7 A gap d can be formed between the inner wall of the bearing housing space 31 and the bearing 30. When the door 20 and the bearing support 30s move, the bearing 30 can contact and rotate with the lower surface of the bearing support 30s and the movement guide 33 of the lower plate 10k. The gap d between the inner wall of the bearing housing space 31 and the bearing 30 allows the bearing 30 to move inside the bearing housing space 31. Because of the gap d between the inner wall of the bearing housing space 31 and the bearing 30, the movement and rotation of the bearing 30, which moves together with the door 20 and the bearing support 30s, can proceed smoothly.

[0142] Reference Figure 6 A pressure support 50 may be disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k to press the bearing support 30s in one direction (+X direction) or another direction (-X direction). The pressure support 50 may include, for example, a torsion spring. One end of the pressure support 50 is connected to the first shaft 50a of the lower plate 10k, and the other end of the pressure support 50 is connected to the second shaft 50b of the bearing support 30s.

[0143] The pressure support 50 can apply pressure between the lower plate 10k and the bearing support 30s. For example, as... Figure 7 As shown, when the door 20 is in the closed position for closing the opening 10a, the lower plate 10k and the bearing support 30s can be subjected to a compressive force based on the elastic force of the torsion spring of the pressure support 50. Therefore, the door 20 can be held in the closed position by the pressure support 50.

[0144] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 A longitudinal sectional view of the door of the aerosol generating device in other operating states. Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus shown. Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus shown.

[0145] like Figure 8 As shown, when the door 20 is in the open position with the opening 10a, the lower plate 10k and the bearing support 30s can be subjected to a compressive force based on the elastic force of the torsion spring of the pressure support 50. Therefore, the door 20 can be held in the open position by the pressure support 50.

[0146] When the door 20 receives an operating force from the user, it can be pressurized from the open position to the closed position. The operating force acting on the door 20 is transmitted to the pressure support 50 through the bearing support 30s, causing the pressure support 50 to be compressed and deformed. When the magnitude of the operating force transmitted to the pressure support 50 exceeds the elastic force of the pressure support 50, the door 20 can disengage from the open position. When the door 20 passes a critical point during its movement from the open position to the closed position, the pressure support 50 returns to its original shape, allowing the door 20 to automatically move to the closed position by the elastic force of the pressure support 50.

[0147] Additionally, when door 20 from Figure 7 The closed position shown is towards Figure 8 The above-described working process can be applied similarly when the door 20 moves from the closed position to the open position. When the door 20 passes the critical point during its movement from the closed position to the open position, the elastic force of the pressure support 50 to restore its original shape can automatically move the door 20 to the open position.

[0148] Reference Figure 5 The housing 10 extends along one direction (Z-axis direction). The outer surface 10u of the housing 10 can be formed by the upper plate 10m of the door assembly 10b. (Refer to...) Figure 7 and Figure 8 The outer surface 10u extends obliquely relative to a direction perpendicular to a direction (Z-axis direction) (X-axis direction). For example, at least a portion of the outer surface 10u may extend in a curved manner. The outer surface 10u of the upper plate 10m may extend in a curved manner along a first curved surface m1. The upper surface of the lower plate 10k may extend in a curved manner along a second curved surface m2. The door body 20 may move along the curve of the first curved surface m1 extending from the outer surface 10u.

[0149] The bearing support 30s may include a material that can be elastically deformed. For example, the bearing support 30s may be made of materials such as rubber, sponge, or flexible plastic so that it can change according to the force applied externally.

[0150] When the door 20 moves along the inclined outer surface 10u of the housing 10, the pressure applied by the outer surface 10u to the bearing 30 can be transmitted to the bearing support 30s. The bearing support 30s can elastically deform according to the pressure transmitted from the bearing 30. Therefore, when the outer surface 10u of the housing 10 is inclined, the bearing support 30s elastically deforms, thereby stably supporting the bearing 30 and ensuring that the bearing 30 can rotate smoothly.

[0151] Furthermore, when assembly tolerances occur between the components of the housing 10 and / or the door assembly 10b, the bearing support 30s can compensate for these tolerances through elastic deformation. For example, if the assembly tolerances cause gaps between the bearing 30 and other components or cause mutual pressure between components, the bearing support 30s can maintain proper contact between the bearing 30 and other components through elastic deformation to accommodate the movement and rotation of the bearing 30.

[0152] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with yet another embodiment. Figure 11 The door assembly 10b of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown.

[0153] The door assembly 10b includes an upper plate 10m and a lower plate 10k. The upper plate 10m includes an opening 10a and can movably support the door 20. The lower plate 10k includes an internal opening 10d communicating with the opening 10a.

[0154] A bearing support 30s for supporting the bearing 30 can be disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k. When the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k are combined, a movable space is formed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k, which allows the bearing support 30s to be disposed.

[0155] One side of the bearing support 30s can be connected to the door body 20. The upper plate 10m may include a guide hole 30g for guiding the movement of the door body 20. The guide hole 30g extends along the movement direction (X-axis direction) of the door body 20. The door body 20 and the bearing support 30s can be connected through the guide hole 30g. The door body 20 can move along the upper plate 10m.

[0156] When the door 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing support 30s supports the bearing 30 so that the bearing 30 rotates.

[0157] Multiple bearings 30 may be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The bearing support portion 30s may include a bearing receiving space 31 for accommodating the bearings 30. The bearing receiving space 31 extends along the extending direction of the door body 20. The multiple bearings 30 may be arranged sequentially along the moving direction of the door body 20. At least a portion of the multiple bearings 30 may have different diameters. For example, the diameter of the bearings 30 may gradually increase along one of the moving directions of the door body 20.

[0158] The bearing support portion 30s may include an upper support portion 30r, disposed inside the bearing support portion 30s and supporting the bearings 30 on its upper side. Curved surfaces corresponding to the plurality of bearings 30 may be formed on the lower surface of the upper support portion 30r. To accommodate the gradually increasing diameter of the bearings 30, the thickness z1 of the upper support portion 30r may be set in different dimensions along the moving direction of the door body 20.

[0159] The upper support portion 30r includes an elastic material to allow for elastic deformation. When the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing 30 can move and rotate with the door body 20.

[0160] For example, at least one of the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k may be formed at an angle relative to the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the housing 10. The upper support portion 30r may be made of materials such as rubber, sponge, or flexible plastic so that it can deform according to externally applied forces.

[0161] When the door body 20 moves along the upper plate 10m and lower plate 10k forming the inclined surface, the applied pressure to the bearing 30 can be transmitted to the upper support portion 30r. The upper support portion 30r can elastically deform according to the applied pressure transmitted from the bearing 30. Therefore, when the upper plate 10m and / or the lower plate 10k form the inclined surface, the upper support portion 30r changes its thickness z1 through elastic deformation, thereby allowing the bearing 30 to rotate smoothly.

[0162] The embodiments are not limited to the implementation of the upper support portion 30r. For example, the upper support portion 30r can be implemented by components such as a compression coil spring, a leaf spring, a hydraulic cylinder, or a pneumatic cylinder.

[0163] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with yet another embodiment. Figure 12 The door assembly 10b of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown.

[0164] The door assembly 10b includes an upper plate 10m and a lower plate 10k. The upper plate 10m includes an opening 10a and can be supported in a manner that allows the door 20 to move.

[0165] A bearing support 30s for supporting the bearing 30 can be disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k. When the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k are joined, a movable space is formed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k, which allows the bearing support 30s to be disposed. When the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing support 30s supports the bearing 30, so that the bearing 30 can rotate.

[0166] A plurality of bearings 30 may be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The bearing support portion 30s may include a bearing receiving space 31 for accommodating the bearings 30. The bearing receiving space 31 extends along the extending direction of the door body 20. The plurality of bearings 30 may be arranged sequentially along the moving direction of the door body 20. The plurality of bearings 30 may be formed in a plurality of layers 42, 41. The bearings 30 belonging to each of the plurality of layers 42, 41 may have different diameters. For example, the diameter of the bearings 30 belonging to the second layer 42 may be different from the diameter of the bearings 30 belonging to the first layer 41. As another example, at least a portion of the plurality of bearings 30 belonging to the first layer 41 may have different diameters. Additionally, at least a portion of the plurality of bearings 30 belonging to the second layer 42 may have different diameters.

[0167] According to the aerosol generating device 1, which includes the door assembly 10b related to the above embodiment, the bearings 30 belonging to multiple layers 42, 41 contact each other and rotate, thereby enabling the smooth movement of the door 20.

[0168] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with yet another embodiment.

[0169] and Figure 13 The housing 10 of the aerosol generating device 1 in the illustrated embodiment may include an outer surface 10u to which a door 20 is attached. An opening 10a is formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10, which opens to the outside. The insertion space 10s of the aerosol generating device 1 communicates with the opening 10a.

[0170] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a door 20 with an open or closed opening 10a. The door 20 is movable relative to the housing 10 along its outer surface 10u. Figure 13 The bearing 30, located between the outer surface 10u of the door body 20 and the housing 10, is omitted. (Applied to...) Figures 2 to 12 The bearing 30 and bearing support 30s of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 shown in the embodiment can be applied to... Figure 13 The aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with the embodiment shown is illustrated.

[0171] A pressure support portion 50 for pressurizing the door body 20 in one direction or another may be disposed between the outer surface 10u of the housing 10 and the door body 20. The pressure support portion 50 may include, for example, a first magnetic body 51 located on the door body 20, a second magnetic body 52 located on the outer surface 10u, and a third magnetic body 52b.

[0172] The pressure support 50 can apply pressure between the door body 20 and the housing 10. For example, as Figure 13 As shown by the solid line, when the door 20 is in the closed position of the closed opening 10a, the door 20 will be kept in the closed position due to the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52. ​​Because of the attraction between the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52, the door 20 is kept in the closed position. Therefore, at the closed position of the door 20, the opposite magnetic poles (N pole and S pole) of the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52 can face each other.

[0173] As another example, when door 20 is located as... Figure 13 When the door 20 is in the open position, as shown by the dashed line, the door body 20 is held in the open position by the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic body 51 and the third magnetic body 52b. Because of the attraction between the first magnetic body 51 and the third magnetic body 52b, the door body 20 is held in the open position, and therefore, in the open position of the door body 20, the opposite magnetic poles (N pole, S pole) of the first magnetic body 51 and the third magnetic body 52b can face each other.

[0174] exist Figure 13 In this configuration, when the door 20, which is held in the closed position, is subjected to an operating force by the user, the door 20 can be pressurized from the closed position to the open position. When the magnitude of the operating force transmitted to the pressure support 50 exceeds the magnitude of the magnetic attraction force acting between the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52, the door 20 can detach from the closed position. When the door 20 moves from the closed position to the open position, and the N pole of the first magnetic body 51 approaches the N pole of the third magnetic body 52b, a magnetic repulsion force can be generated between the first magnetic body 51 and the third magnetic body 52b. When the door 20 passes a critical point during its movement from the closed position to the open position, the N pole of the third magnetic body 52b pushes away the N pole of the first magnetic body 51 and attracts the S pole of the first magnetic body 51, thereby causing the door 20 to automatically move to the open position.

[0175] When kept Figure 13 When the door 20, shown in the dashed line in the open position, is subjected to the user's operating force, the door 20 can move from the open position to the closed position, similar to the action of the door 20 moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0176] According to the aerosol generating device 1 associated with the above embodiment, the door 20 can be stably maintained in an open or closed position by the magnetic force acting between the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52 and the third magnetic body 52b.

[0177] In addition, the smooth movement of the door 20 can be achieved by the magnetic force acting between the first magnetic body 51 and the second magnetic body 52 and the third magnetic body 52b, and the door 20 can automatically reach the open or closed position.

[0178] Figure 14 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 related to yet another embodiment.

[0179] and Figure 14 The housing 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in the illustrated embodiment may include an outer surface 10u to which a door 20 is attached. An opening 10a that opens to the outside is formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10.

[0180] The aerosol generating device 1 may include: a door 20, with an open or closed opening 10a. The door 20 is movable relative to the housing 10 along its outer surface 10u. The door 20 is rotatable along the outer surface 10u about a rotation axis h1 located outside the opening 10a.

[0181] Multiple bearings 30 can be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The multiple bearings 30 can be arranged sequentially along the rotation direction of the door body 20. A movement guide portion 33 for guiding the movement of the bearings 30 can be formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10. The movement guide portion 33 can be implemented, for example, by a groove formed recessed on the outer surface 10u and extending in an arc shape.

[0182] When the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing 30 can move and rotate together with the door body 20.

[0183] The bearing 30 may be spherical. The embodiments are not limited to the structure of the bearing 30. For example, the bearing 30 may be cylindrical, conical, or truncated cone.

[0184] According to the aerosol generating device 1 associated with the above embodiment, the door 20 moves along the outer surface 10u of the housing 10, thereby opening or closing the opening 10a. Smooth movement of the door 20 can be achieved by means of the bearing 30 located between the door 20 and the outer surface 10u.

[0185] Figure 15 This is a perspective view schematically showing a portion of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 related to yet another embodiment.

[0186] and Figure 15 The housing 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 in the illustrated embodiment may include an outer surface 10u to which a door 20 is attached. An opening 10a is formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10, opening to the outside. The outer surface 10u may include a curved surface 10h that is at least partially curved. The curved surface 10h may be connected to one side of the straight extension of the outer surface 10u and is formed in a curved shape.

[0187] The aerosol generating device 1 may include a door 20 with an open or closed opening 10a. The door 20 is movable relative to the housing 10 along its outer surface 10u. Additionally, the door 20 is movable along a curved surface 10h. During the movement of the door 20 along the curved surface 10h, the shape of the door 20 may deform to correspond to the curved shape of the curved surface 10h. For example, the door 20 may be made of a flexible material, such as rubber, flexible plastic, or a flexible metal plate.

[0188] When door 20 is located Figure 15 When the closed position is shown by the dashed line, the opening 10a can be closed. The door body 20 can move from the closed position to the open position where the opening 10a is open, towards the curved surface 10h.

[0189] Multiple bearings 30 can be disposed between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The multiple bearings 30 can be arranged sequentially along the moving direction of the door body 20. A moving guide portion 33 for guiding the movement of the bearings 30 can be formed on the outer surface 10u of the housing 10. At least a portion of the moving guide portion 33 can extend along the curved surface 10h. The moving guide portion 33 can be implemented, for example, by a groove recessed in the outer surface 10u and extending along the curved surface 10h.

[0190] When the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing 30 can move and rotate together with the door body 20.

[0191] According to the aerosol generating device 1 associated with the above embodiment, the door 20 moves along the outer surface 10u of the housing 10, thereby opening or closing the opening 10a. Smooth movement of the door 20 can be achieved by means of the bearing 30 located between the door 20 and the outer surface 10u.

[0192] The aerosol generating apparatus 1 associated with the embodiment includes: a housing 10 including an opening 10a into which an aerosol generating article 2 can be inserted; a door 20 movable relative to the housing 10 to open and close the opening 10a; and a bearing 30 located between the door 20 and the housing 10 and supporting the door 20 in a manner that allows the door 20 to move relative to the housing 10.

[0193] According to one aspect, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include a bearing support 30s. When the door 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing support 30s can support the bearing 30 so that the bearing 30 can rotate.

[0194] On the other hand, the bearing support can elastically deform in 30 seconds.

[0195] According to another aspect, when the door body 20 moves relative to the housing 10, the bearing 30 can move and rotate together with the door body 20.

[0196] According to another aspect, the aerosol generating device 1 may also include: a moving guide 33 that contacts a portion of the surface of the bearing 30 that moves with the door body 20 and guides the movement of the bearing 30.

[0197] According to another aspect, the housing 10 may also include an outer surface 10u to which the door 20 is attached. An opening 10a may be formed on the outer surface 10u and open to the outside.

[0198] According to another aspect, the housing 10 can extend in one direction. The outer surface 10u can extend obliquely relative to a direction perpendicular to one direction. The door 20 can move along the outer surface 10u.

[0199] According to another aspect, multiple bearings 30 can be arranged between the door body 20 and the housing 10. The multiple bearings 30 can be arranged along the moving direction of the door body 20.

[0200] According to another aspect, at least a portion of the plurality of bearings 30 may have different diameters.

[0201] According to another aspect, between the door body 20 and the housing 10, the bearing 30 can form multiple layers 41, 42.

[0202] According to another aspect, the housing 10 may also include: a mounting opening 10f that opens to the outside; and a door assembly 10b that is mounted in the mounting opening 10f and movably supports the door 20.

[0203] According to another aspect, the door assembly 10b may include: an upper plate 10m, including an opening 10a and movably supporting the door 20. Additionally, the door assembly 10b may also include: a lower plate 10k, which is coupled to the upper plate 10m and includes an internal opening 10d communicating with the opening 10a.

[0204] According to another aspect, the door assembly 10b may also include: a bearing support 30s, disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k and used to support the bearing 30.

[0205] According to another aspect, the door body 20 can move along the outer surface 10u of the upper plate 10m. In addition, one side of the bearing support 30s can be connected to the door body 20.

[0206] According to another aspect, the upper plate 10m may also include: a guide hole 30g for guiding the movement of the door body 20. The guide hole 30g may extend along the direction of movement of the door body 20.

[0207] According to another aspect, one side of the bearing support 30s can be connected to the door body 20 through the guide hole 30g.

[0208] According to another aspect, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include: a pressure support 50 for pressurizing the bearing support 30s. The bearing support 30s may be disposed between the upper plate 10m and the lower plate 10k.

[0209] According to another aspect, the pressure support 50 can use the force of the spring to elastically pressurize the bearing support 30s.

[0210] According to another aspect, the pressure support 50 can apply pressure to the bearing support 30s by means of magnetic force.

[0211] According to another aspect, the bearing support 30s may include: a bearing housing space 31 for accommodating the bearing 30.

[0212] According to another aspect, a gap can be formed between the bearing housing space 31 and the bearing 30.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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.

[0216] Industrial applicability The embodiments relate to an aerosol generating apparatus, and more specifically, to an aerosol generating apparatus including a door body with improved durability and smooth operation.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, characterized in that, include: The casing includes an opening into which an aerosol-generating article can be inserted. The door body is movable relative to the housing to open and close the opening. A bearing is located between the door body and the housing and supports the door body in a manner that allows the door body to move relative to the housing by rotation.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A bearing support is configured to support the bearing, such that the bearing rotates as the door moves relative to the housing.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bearing support is capable of elastic deformation.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bearing is configured to move and rotate with the door body when the door body moves relative to the housing.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A movement guide is configured to contact a portion of the bearing surface that moves with the door body to guide the movement of the bearing.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing further includes an outer surface, which is combined with the door body. The opening is formed on the outer surface and faces outward.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The housing extends in one direction, the outer surface extends obliquely relative to a direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the door moves along the outer surface.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, A plurality of bearings are disposed between the door body and the housing, and the plurality of bearings are arranged along the moving direction of the door body.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of bearings have different diameters.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bearing forms multiple layers between the door body and the housing.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also includes: The mounting port is open to the outside, and A door assembly is installed in the mounting port and configured to support the door in a manner that allows the door to move.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The door assembly includes: The upper panel includes the opening and supports the door in a manner that allows the door to move. The lower plate, which is joined to the upper plate and includes an internal opening communicating with the opening, and A bearing support is disposed between the upper plate and the lower plate and is configured to support the bearing; The door can move along the outer surface of the upper plate. One side of the bearing support is connected to the door body.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The upper plate also includes: A guide hole extends along the moving direction of the door and guides the movement of the door. One side of the bearing support is connected to the door body through the guide hole.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, Also includes: A pressure support is disposed between the upper plate and the lower plate and is configured to apply pressure to the bearing support.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that, The bearing support includes a bearing housing space for accommodating the bearing. There is a gap between the bearing housing space and the bearing.

Images