Aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus is disclosed. The aerosol generating apparatus includes: a body including a first opening leading to a first insertion space; a heater module configured to be removably inserted into the first insertion space, wherein the heater module includes: a heater holder including a second opening leading to a second insertion space, wherein the heater is disposed in the second insertion space; a frame coupled to the heater holder; and a substrate coupled to the frame, and a memory configured to store specific information about the heater mounted on the substrate; and a controller disposed in the body and configured to control the operation of the heater based on receiving the specific information about the heater from the memory.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on August 10, 2023, with application number 202380059575.8 and invention title "Aerosol Generating Device". Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] An aerosol generating device is an apparatus that extracts specific components from a medium or substance by forming an aerosol. The medium may include multi-component substances. The substances included in the medium may be multi-component flavoring substances. For example, the substances included in the medium may include nicotine, herbal ingredients, and / or coffee components. Various studies have recently been conducted on aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] [Technical Issues] One purpose of this disclosure is to address the above and other issues.

[0005] Another objective of this disclosure is to accurately calculate the temperature of the heater.

[0006] Another object of this disclosure is to precisely control the components (including heaters) of an aerosol generating device.

[0007] Another objective of this disclosure is to facilitate the cleaning of the heater module.

[0008] Another objective of this disclosure is to facilitate the replacement of the heater.

[0009] [Technical Solution] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a body including a first opening leading to a first insertion space; a heater module configured to be removably inserted into the first insertion space, wherein the heater module includes: a heater holder including a second opening leading to a second insertion space, wherein the heater is disposed in the second insertion space; a frame coupled to the heater holder; and a substrate coupled to the frame and having a memory configured to store specific information about the heater mounted on the substrate; and a controller disposed in the body and configured to control the operation of the heater based on receiving the specific information about the heater from the memory.

[0010] [Technical Effects] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be calculated accurately.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, components (including heaters) of the aerosol generating device can be precisely controlled.

[0012] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure can facilitate the cleaning of the heater module.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, heater replacement can be achieved in a more convenient manner.

[0014] The further applicability of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that various changes and modifications within the concept and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art; therefore, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments, are given by way of example only. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figures 1 to 20 An example of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0016] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of brevity with reference to the drawings, identical or equivalent components are given the same or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0017] In the following description, suffixes such as “module” and “unit” may be used to refer to elements or components. Such suffixes are used herein solely for ease of description and are not intended to provide any particular meaning or function.

[0018] For the sake of brevity, content well known to those skilled in the art has been omitted in this disclosure. The accompanying drawings are provided to aid in the easy understanding of the technical concept of this disclosure, and it should be understood that the concept of this disclosure is not limited to the drawings. In addition to the drawings, the concept of this disclosure should be interpreted as extending to any variations, equivalents, and alternatives.

[0019] It will be understood that while terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., may be used in this document to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another.

[0020] It should be understood that when a component is described as "connected to" or "combined to" another component, the component may be directly connected to or combined with the other component, or there may be intermediate components. On the other hand, when a component is described as "directly connected to" or "directly combined to" another component, there are no intermediate components.

[0021] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular representations are intended to include plural representations.

[0022] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating device may include at least one of a body 10, an outer cover 20, a heater module 30, and an inner cover 40. The body 10 may house at least one of a battery 101, a controller 102, and a sensor 103. The body 10 may have a first insertion space 14 with an opening at the top. The first insertion space 14 may be formed in the upper part of the body 10.

[0023] The heater module 30 can be detachably inserted into the first insertion space 14. The heater module 30 may have a second insertion space 34 with an opening at the top. The second insertion space 34 may extend vertically. The heater 35 may be secured to the heater module 30. The heater 35 may protrude upward from the lower part of the second insertion space 34. The heater 35 may heat the area surrounding the second insertion space 34.

[0024] The outer cover 20 can be detachably attached to the top of the body 10. The outer cover 20 can cover the upper part of the body 10 and the heater module 30. The outer cover 20 may include an extractor 21. The extractor 21 may have a third insertion space 24 with an opening at the top. The extractor 21 and the third insertion space 24 may have a vertically extending shape. The extractor 21 can be inserted into a second insertion space 34 inside the heater module 30. When the extractor 21 is inserted into the second insertion space 34, the heater 35 is exposed to the third insertion space 24 through a through hole 24a with an opening at the bottom of the extractor 21. The cap 25 can be movably attached to the outer cover 20 to open and close the opening of the third insertion space 24.

[0025] The first magnet 26 may be disposed in the outer cover 20. When an attractive force is applied between the first magnet 26 and the second magnet 46 disposed in the inner cover 40, the outer cover 20 may be detachably attached to the top of the inner cover 40.

[0026] A stick S can be inserted into the third insertion space 24 to be supported by the extractor 21. A heater 35 can be inserted into the stick S inserted into the third insertion space 24. The heater 35 can heat the third insertion space 24 and the stick S to generate an aerosol. When the outer cover 20 is removed from the body 10, the stick S inside the extractor 21 can also be separated from the body 10 and pulled out. Therefore, the stick S can be easily removed.

[0027] An inner cover 40 may be disposed between the main body 10 and the outer cover 20. The inner cover 40 may be detachably attached to the main body 10. The inner cover 40 may cover the upper part of the main body 10 and the heater module 30. The inner cover 40 may be detachably attached to the upper part of the heater module 30. When the inner cover 40 is removed from the main body 10, the heater module 30 may be separated from the first insertion space 14. Therefore, the heater module 30 can be easily removed from the main body 10, thereby allowing the heater module 30 to be replaced more easily.

[0028] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 The aerosol generating device may include at least one of a battery 101, a controller 102, and a sensor 103. At least one of the battery 101, controller 102, and sensor 103 may be housed within the body 10 of the aerosol generating device. The body 10 may have a vertically extending shape. The controller 102 and sensor 103 may be mounted on a first substrate 104 disposed within the body 10. The controller 102 and sensor 103 may be mounted together on a single first substrate 104. Optionally, the function of the sensor 103 may be embedded within the controller 102.

[0029] Battery 101 provides power to operate the components of the aerosol generating device. Battery 101 can supply power to at least one of the controller 102, sensor 103, heater 35, and memory 37. Battery 101 can also supply the power required to operate various components (such as induction coils (not shown), user interfaces, etc.) installed at the aerosol generating device.

[0030] Controller 102 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. Controller 102 controls the operation of at least one of the following: battery 101, sensor 103, heater 35, and memory 37. Controller 102 receives information from sensor 103. Controller 102 controls the operation of induction coils (not shown), user interfaces, etc., installed at the aerosol generating device. Controller 102 checks the status of each component of the aerosol generating device to determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operable state.

[0031] The heater module 30 can be detachably attached to the upper side of the body 10. For example, the heater module 30 and the body 10 can be attached together magnetically, by snap-fit, or by screws. The heater module 30 may have a second insertion space 34 with an opening at the top. The second insertion space 34 may have an elongated cylindrical shape. The body 10 may have a first insertion space 14 into which the heater module 30 is detachably inserted. The first insertion space 14 may be formed on the upper part of the body 10 and may have an opening at the top.

[0032] The heater module 30 may include a heater 35. The heater 35 can heat the second insertion space 34. For example, the heater 35 may protrude from the bottom of the second insertion space 34 toward the opening of the second insertion space 34 in an upwardly tapering shape. As another example, the heater 35 may have a cylindrical shape surrounding the second insertion space 34.

[0033] A rod S can be inserted into a second insertion space 34 formed in the heater module 30. The rod S may have an elongated cylindrical shape. The lower end of the rod S can be inserted into the second insertion space 34, and the upper end of the rod S can protrude from the second insertion space 34 beyond the aerosol generating device. When the rod S is inserted into the second insertion space 34, a heater 35 can be inserted into the rod S. The user can inhale air while holding the exposed upper end of the rod S in his or her mouth. The heater 35 can heat the rod S inserted into the second insertion space 34. When the rod S is heated to a predetermined temperature by the heater 35, an aerosol can be generated from the rod S.

[0034] Heater 35 may be a resistance heater. Heater 35 may include a variable resistance metal. Heater 35 may generate heat using electricity received from battery 101. Alternatively, heater 35 may generate heat using eddy currents generated by a magnetic field produced by an induction coil (not shown) surrounding heater 35.

[0035] Heater 35 may possess unique (or specific) information. The unique information of heater 35 (parameters related to the inherent characteristics of heater 35) may be parameters used to determine the voltage applied to heater 35. For example, the unique information of heater 35 may include parameters related to the inherent characteristics of heater 35 that affect its heating operation, such as the resistivity of heater 35, the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) value of heater 35 (hereinafter referred to as the "TCR value"), the inductance of heater 35, the capacitance of heater 35, etc. The resistance of heater 35 may vary with temperature. As the temperature rises as heater 35 generates heat, the resistance of heater 35 may increase. The resistance at a particular temperature may vary depending on the resistivity and TCR value of heater 35.

[0036] Sensor 103 can detect values ​​related to the temperature of heater 35 or values ​​related to the resistance of heater 35. For example, sensor 103 can detect the voltage applied to heater 35. For example, sensor 103 can detect the current flowing through heater 35.

[0037] Controller 102 may receive values ​​detected by sensor 103. Controller 102 may estimate the temperature of heater 35 based on the values ​​received from sensor 103. For example, since the resistance value of heater 35 changes according to the temperature of heater 35, controller 102 may calculate the resistance value of heater 35 based on the current value received from sensor 103 to determine the temperature of heater 35. As another example, controller 102 may receive the temperature value of heater 35 detected by sensor 103 to determine the temperature of heater 35.

[0038] The specific information of heater 35 may vary depending on the material properties of heater 35, but may also be slightly affected, for example, by dimensional errors that may occur during manufacturing, such as the length and thickness of the heating wire of heater 35. As another example, errors in the proportions of the alloy components constituting heater 35 that may occur during manufacturing may also affect the specific information of heater 35. These are merely examples, and the factors affecting the specific information of heater 35 are not limited to these. Due to these factors, a difference may arise between the estimated temperature of heater 35 and the actual temperature of heater 35, leading to inaccurate control.

[0039] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the relationship between resistance and temperature for heaters with different TCR values. For example, refer to... Figure 6 The first heater 35A and the second heater 35B, made of the same material, may have slightly different resistivity and TCR values ​​due to errors in the alloy ratio during the manufacturing process. As another example, the TCR value of the second heater 35B may be determined to be the TCR value of the third heater 35B' due to foreign matter contacting the heating wire, lead 359, or the first substrate 104 on which the controller 102 is mounted, or due to internal and external noise.

[0040] Therefore, the resistance values ​​of heaters 35 at a specific temperature may differ for the first heater 35A, the second heater 35B, and the third heater 35B'. As a result, errors may occur in the resistance values ​​calculated by the controller 102, which could lead to errors in the calculation of the temperature of heater 35.

[0041] To address this issue, the heater module 30 may include a memory 37. The memory 37 may be mounted on a second substrate 26, which is mounted within the heater module 30. The memory 37 may store specific (or particular) information about the heaters 35 included in the heater module 30.

[0042] For example, memory 37 may store the resistivity or TCR value of the heaters 35 included in heater module 30. During the manufacture of heater module 30, precise, unique parameters of each manufactured heater 35 can be measured by an external measuring device and stored in memory 37. For these reasons, memory 37 included in each heater module 30 may store resistivity values ​​of heaters 35 that differ from each other.

[0043] The controller 102 can store information corresponding to multiple heater parameters. For example, the controller 102 can store temperature (T)-resistance (R) curve information for each heater parameter (see [link]). Figure 6 For example, controller 102 may store information corresponding to multiple heater parameters in the form of a lookup table. Controller 102 may receive specific information about heater 35 from memory 37 included in heater module 30 to match the specific information about heater 35 with any of the stored multiple heater parameters. For example, controller 102 may match the received specific information about heater 35 with a specific heater parameter on a temperature (T)-resistance (R) curve.

[0044] Reference Figure 7 When the heater module 30 is attached to the main body 10, the heater 35 can be electrically connected to at least one of the battery 101, the controller 102, and the sensor 103 (see [link]). Figure 7 (Step S1 in the text). When the heater module 30 is attached to the body 10, the memory 37 can be electrically connected to at least one of the battery 101 and the controller 102 (see step S1 in the text). Figure 7 (Step S1). When the heater module 30 is removed from the main body 10, the heater 35 can be separated from the battery 101, the controller 102, and the sensor 103. When the heater module 30 is removed from the main body 10, the memory 37 can be separated from the battery 101 and the controller 102.

[0045] Controller 102 can receive specific information about heater 35 from memory 37 (see [link]). Figure 7 (Step S2 in the above). For example, controller 102 may receive the specific resistance value of heater 35 from memory 37. For example, controller 102 may receive a specific TCR value of heater 35 from memory 37. However, these are merely examples, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. Controller 102 may receive various specific information about heater 35 for estimating the temperature of heater 35.

[0046] The controller 102 can calculate the temperature of the heater 35 based on specific information about the heater 35 (see [reference]). Figure 7 Step S3 in the process. For example, refer to... Figure 6The controller 102 can receive the TCR value of the heater 35 corresponding to the first heater 35A from the memory 37, and receive the current value flowing through the heater 35 from the sensor 103, in order to determine the current resistance value of the heater 35. Therefore, the current temperature of the heater 35 corresponding to the first heater 35A can be estimated.

[0047] Therefore, controller 102 can calculate the exact temperature of heater 35. By determining the exact temperature of heater 35, controller 102 can perform more precise control over various components (see [link]). Figure 7 Step S4 in the process.

[0048] For example, controller 102 can control the temperature of heater 35 based on a calculated temperature of heater 35. Controller 102 can control the voltage applied to heater 35 to increase or decrease the heating temperature of heater 35, thereby regulating the temperature of heater 35 to a target temperature. As another example, based on the current temperature of heater 35, controller 102 can determine whether the liquid stored in the cartridge (not shown) is depleted. As yet another example, controller 102 can control a user interface to provide the user with information about the current temperature of heater 35.

[0049] The memory 37 may store identification information used to determine whether the heater module 30 is trustworthy (authentic). When the heater module 30 is attached to the body 10, the controller 102 may receive the identification information stored in the memory 37 to determine whether the heater module 30 is trustworthy. For example, the controller 102 may compare embedded information with the identification information to determine whether the heater module 30 is trustworthy. For example, the memory 37 may store the identification information about the heater module 30 in the form of encrypted code, and the controller 102 may decode the encrypted code to determine whether the heater module 30 is trustworthy.

[0050] For example, when heater module 30 is false, controller 102 can cut off the power supply to heater 35, while when heater module 30 is true, controller 102 can control the power supply to heater 35. Controller 102 can control the user interface to provide the user with information about whether heater module 30 is trustworthy.

[0051] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9The heater module 30 can be detachably inserted into a first insertion space 14, which has a top opening in the upper part of the body 10. The heater module 30 can be separated from the first insertion space 14 by removing the inner cover 40 from the body 10. After removing the heater module 30 from the inner cover 40, the user can attach a new heater module 30 to the inner cover 40 and then attach the inner cover 40 to the body 10, allowing the heater module 30 to be secured or placed in the first insertion space 14. Therefore, the heater module 30 can be easily removed, replaced, and assembled.

[0052] Reference Figures 9 to 11 The heater module 30 may include a heater retainer 31. The heater retainer 31 may include a vertically extending tubular shape. The heater retainer 31 may have a second insertion space 34 with an opening at the top. The second insertion space 34 may be formed in a vertically extending cylindrical shape. The heater 35 may be secured to the heater retainer 31 (see [link to product]). Figure 12 ).

[0053] The heater module 30 may include a frame 32. The frame 32 may be coupled to the heater holder 31. A sidewall (or side portion) 321 of the frame 32 may cover a sidewall (or side portion) 311 of the heater holder 31. The sidewall 321 of the frame 32 may extend vertically. The sidewall 321 of the frame 32 may have a curved "U" shape. The lower portion 322 of the frame 32 may cover the lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31.

[0054] Mounting wall 321a may extend upward from the outer periphery of the lower portion 322 of frame 32. Mounting wall 321a may be connected to the side wall 321 of frame 32. Mounting wall 321a may be connected to the side wall 311 of heater holder 31. Mounting wall 321a may cover one side of the lower portion 312 of heater holder 31.

[0055] The memory 37 can be mounted on the second substrate 36. The second substrate 36 can be disposed between the heater holder 31 and the frame 32. The second substrate 36 can be coupled to or fixed to the frame 32. For example, the second substrate 36 can have a flat plate shape as shown in the figure.

[0056] The second substrate 36 may be disposed between the side wall 311 of the heater holder 31 and the side wall 321 of the frame 32. The second substrate 36 may be disposed parallel to the vertical direction or the up-down direction. The second substrate 36 may be parallel to the side wall 311 of the heater holder 31 and the side wall 321 of the frame 32.

[0057] The frame 32 may have a groove 328. A second substrate 36 may be inserted into the groove 328. The groove 328 may be formed in the sidewall 321 of the frame 32. The groove 328 may extend vertically. The groove 328 may have an opening at the top. The second substrate 36 may be vertically disposed in the groove 328. The second substrate 36 may be inserted downwards into the groove 328.

[0058] The insertion guide surface 327 may be formed near the opening of the groove 328 in an inclined manner toward the groove 328. For example, the groove 328 may have an opening at the top, and the insertion guide surface 327 may be inclined downward toward the groove 328. The insertion guide surface 327 may be formed on the upper end surface of the sidewall 321 of the frame 32. The insertion guide surface 327 may guide the second substrate 36 into the groove 328. For example, during the insertion of the second substrate 36, even when the second substrate 36 collides with the sidewall 321 of the frame 32 near the opening of the groove 328, the second substrate 36 may still contact the insertion guide surface 327, thereby sliding into the groove 238.

[0059] The rear surface and two edges of the second substrate 36 can be supported in the groove 328 by the sidewall 321 of the frame 32. The front surface of the second substrate 36 can face the sidewall 311 of the heater holder 31 in the groove 328.

[0060] The second substrate 36 may be provided with a first module terminal 361. The first module terminal 361 may be disposed on the front surface of the second substrate 36. A first end of a lead 359 may be connected to the heater 35, and a second end of the lead 359 may be connected to the first module terminal 361. Both the lead 359 and the first module terminal 361 may be provided in multiples. For example, two first module terminals 361 and two leads 359 may be provided. The lead 359 may be disposed between the heater holder 31 and the frame 32.

[0061] The second substrate 36 may be provided with second module terminals 362. The second module terminals 362 may be disposed on the rear surface of the second substrate 36. The second module terminals 362 may be disposed at the lower end of the second substrate 36. Multiple second module terminals 362 may be provided. For example, four second module terminals 362 may be provided, such that two second module terminals 362 are electrically connected to the heater 35, and the other two second module terminals 362 are electrically connected to the memory 37.

[0062] The frame 32 may have terminal holes 324. The frame 32 may have an opening on one side to define the terminal hole 324. For example, the terminal hole 324 may be formed when the sidewall 321 supporting the rear surface of the second substrate 36 of the frame 32 is open. Alternatively, the terminal hole 324 may be formed when the lower corner or edge of the sidewall 321 of the frame 32 is open. The terminal hole 324 may communicate with the slot 328. Multiple terminal holes 324 may be provided. The terminal holes 324 may correspond to the second module terminals 362. Multiple second module terminals 362 may be exposed to the outside of the heater module 30 through the corresponding multiple terminal holes 324.

[0063] The frame 32 may have a support member 326. The support member 326 may protrude from the sidewall 321 of the frame 32. The support member 326 may extend vertically. The support member 326 may support the front surface of the second substrate 36. A pair of support members 326 may be provided to support opposite corners of the front surface of the second substrate 36. The support member 326 and the sidewall 321 of the frame 32 together may define a groove 328.

[0064] The frame 32 and the heater holder 31 can be snap-fitted together. The frame 32 can be attached to the heater holder 31 in a non-separable (or non-removable) manner. Either the heater holder 31 or the frame 32 may be provided with a first engaging hook 315, and the other may be provided with a first engaging groove 325, the first engaging hook 315 being fastened to the first engaging groove 325. For example, the first engaging hook 315 may protrude from the heater holder 31 in the lateral direction, and the first engaging groove 325 may be formed in the sidewall 321 of the frame 32 at a position corresponding to the first engaging hook 315.

[0065] The second substrate 36 may have a positioning groove 364 with an opening at the top. The positioning groove 364 may extend vertically. The heater holder 31 may have a positioning protrusion 316. The positioning protrusion 316 may extend vertically and may protrude from the sidewall 311 of the heater holder 31 in the lateral direction. The positioning protrusion 316 may have a shape corresponding to the positioning groove 364. The positioning protrusion 316 may be fitted into the positioning groove 364 such that the second substrate 36 can be aligned or fixed relative to the heater holder 31 for positioning.

[0066] A first seal 33 may be incorporated into the heater module 30. The first seal 33 may have an annular shape. The first seal 33 may surround the upper outer periphery of the heater retainer 31. The upper outer periphery of the heater retainer 31 may be recessed radially inward to define a first edge portion 313. The first seal 33 may be fitted and secured to the first edge portion 313. The first seal 33 may be made of a resilient material. For example, the first seal 33 may be formed using materials such as rubber, silicone, etc.

[0067] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The heater 35 may include a heater rod 351. The heater rod 351 may be fixed to the lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31 so as to protrude into the second insertion space 34. The heater 35 may be inserted into the heater rod 351. The heater rod 351 may have a cavity with an opening at the bottom. The heater rod 351 may surround the heater 35. The heater rod 351 may have a cylindrical shape. The heater rod 351 may have a sharp or pointed upper end. The heater rod 351 may have high thermal expansion, excellent thermal insulation, and low thermal conductivity. The heater rod 351 may have high rigidity. For example, the heater rod 351 may be formed using zirconia. However, the material of the heater rod 351 is not limited to this. Heat generated from the heater 35 can be transferred to the outside through the heater rod 351. When the rod S is inserted into the second insertion space 34, the heater rod 351 and the heater 35 may be disposed inside the rod S.

[0068] Lead 359 extends from heater 35 to the exterior of heater rod 351 and heater holder 31 through a bottom opening of heater rod 351. A first end of lead 359 can be connected to heater 35, and a second end of lead 359 can be connected to second substrate 36. Lead 359 provides an electrical connection between heater 35 and second substrate 36. For example, lead 359 can be connected to heater 35 and second substrate 36 via a soldering process such as soldering or ultrasonic soldering. Lead 359 can be electrically connected to battery 101, controller 102, and sensor 103 via circuit patterns printed on second substrate 36.

[0069] Therefore, heater 35 can receive power via lead 359 to generate heat. Additionally, sensor 103 can detect values ​​related to the temperature or resistance of heater 35 via lead 359. Controller 102 can receive the values ​​detected by sensor 103. Since this has already been described above, its description will be omitted.

[0070] The heater rod 351 can be embedded in the lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31. The heater rod 351 can protrude upwardly from the lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31 toward the second insertion space 34. The heater holder 31 can be inserted into the injection mold using the heater rod 351. In this case, the heater holder 31 can be injected by inserting the heater rod 351 into the injection mold and then injecting polymer resin into the injection mold. With the heater 35 and lead wire 359 placed in the heater rod 351, polymer resin can be injected simultaneously with inserting the heater rod 351 into the injection mold.

[0071] The lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31 may be spaced upward from the lower portion 322 of the frame 32 to form a wire receiving space 354. A lead 359 may be received in the wire receiving space 354. For example, the wire receiving space 354 may be defined by the lower portion 312 of the heater holder 31, the lower portion 322 of the frame 32, and the mounting wall 321a. A first end of the lead 359 received in the wire receiving space 354 may be connected to the lower side of the heater holder 31, and a second end of the lead 359 may be connected to the second substrate 36.

[0072] Mounting wall 321a may be provided with engagement protrusion 329. Heater holder 31 may have recess 319 near lower portion 312. Recess 319 may be supported by engagement protrusion 329, such that lower portion 312 of heater holder 31 can be fixedly positioned relative to frame 32.

[0073] Reference Figure 14 The heater module 30 can be detachably inserted into the first insertion space 14. The main body terminal 162 can protrude from the lower corner or edge of the first insertion space 14. The main body terminal 162 can be positioned corresponding to the module terminal 362. When the heater module 30 is inserted into the first insertion space 14, the second module terminal 362 of the heater module 30 can contact the main body terminal 162 for electrical connection. The cross-section of the first insertion space 14 and the cross-section of the frame 32 can have corresponding non-circular shapes.

[0074] Therefore, when the heater module 30 is inserted into the first insertion space 14, the module terminal 362 and the body terminal 162 can be aligned and contact each other in a set or predetermined position.

[0075] In addition, since the terminals are electrically connected to each other through lateral contact rather than bottom contact, the heater module 30 does not receive external force from the body terminal 162 in the direction of separation from the first insertion space 14, thereby allowing the heater module 30 to be securely positioned in the first insertion space 14.

[0076] When module terminal 362 and main body terminal 162 are in contact with each other, memory 37 and controller 102 can be electrically connected to each other. When module terminal 362 and main body terminal 162 are in contact with each other, memory 37 and battery 101 can be electrically connected to each other. When module terminal 362 and main body terminal 162 are in contact with each other, heater 35 and controller 102 can be electrically connected to each other. When module terminal 362 and main body terminal 162 are in contact with each other, heater 35 and battery 101 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0077] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16The inner cover 40 may include an inner cover body 41. The inner cover 40 may include an inner cover head 42. The inner cover head 42 may be disposed on top of the inner cover body 41 to cover the inner cover body 41.

[0078] The inner cover head 42 may include a cover plate 421 and wings 422. The cover plate 421 may cover the upper portion 411 of the inner cover body 41. A pair of wings 422 may extend downward from opposite sides of the cover plate 421. Each pair of wings 422 may cover a side portion 412 of the inner cover body 41.

[0079] The upper part 411 of the cover plate 421 and the inner cover body 41 may have an inner cover hole 44, which communicates with the opening of the second insertion space 34 of the heater holder 31. The second magnet 46 may be disposed between the upper part 411 of the inner cover body 41 and the cover plate 421.

[0080] The wing 422 may have a second engaging hook 425. The second engaging hook 425 may protrude outward from the wing 422. The second engaging hook 425 may be located at the lower part of the wing 422. The second engaging hook 425 may be fastened to a second engaging groove 15 formed in the body 10 to engage the inner cover 40 to the body 10 (see...). Figure 19 ).

[0081] The wing 422 may have a third engagement groove 424. The third engagement groove 424 may be formed above the second engagement hook 425. The wing 422 may be open inward or both inward and outward to define the third engagement groove 424. A third engagement hook 415 protruding from the side 412 of the inner cover body 41 may be fastened to the third engagement groove 424 to engage the inner cover head 42 to the inner cover body 41.

[0082] The second seal 43 may be coupled to the inner cover 40. The second seal 43 may have an annular shape. The second seal 43 may surround the lower outer periphery of the inner cover body 41. The lower outer periphery of the inner cover body 41 may be recessed in a radially inward direction to define a second edge portion 413. The second seal 43 may be fitted and secured to the second edge portion 413. The second seal 43 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the second seal 43 may be formed using materials such as rubber, silicone resin, etc.

[0083] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 17A first collar 418 may be formed at the upper portion 411 of the inner cover body 41. A second collar 428 may be formed at the cover plate 421. The second collar 428 may surround the inner cover hole 44. The second collar 428 may extend downward from the cover plate 421. The second collar 428 may be inserted into the space surrounded by the first collar 418. The first collar 418 may surround the second collar 428. The first collar 418 may be spaced apart from the outer periphery of the second collar 428 in a radially outward direction. A retainer recess 48 may be defined by the first collar 418, the second collar 428, and the cover plate 421. The retainer recess 48 may be formed between the first collar 418 and the second collar 428. The retainer recess 48 may have an opening at the bottom.

[0084] Reference Figure 18 The upper end of the heater holder 31 can be inserted into and fitted into the holder recess 48. The outer peripheral surface of the upper end of the heater holder 31 can be supported in the holder recess 48 by a first collar 418, and the inner peripheral surface of the upper end of the heater holder 31 can be supported in the holder recess 48 by a second collar 428. The upper end of the heater holder 31 can be fitted into the holder recess 48 so as to be detachably coupled to the inner cover 40.

[0085] The first seal 33 can seal between the heater retainer 31 and the inner cover 40. The first seal 33 can be in close contact with the first edge portion 313 and the second collar 418 in the retainer groove 48 to seal between the first edge portion 313 and the second collar 418. Due to the elasticity of the first seal 33, the heater retainer 31 can be detachably coupled to the inner cover 40.

[0086] The second seal 43 can seal between the body 10 and the inner cover 40. The sidewall 11 of the body 10 can extend upward to cover the lower surface of the inner cover body 41 and the lower part of the wing 422. The second seal 43 can be in close contact with the second edge portion 413 and the inner surface of the sidewall 11 of the body 10 to seal between the second edge portion 413 and the sidewall 11 of the body 10.

[0087] Therefore, foreign objects such as liquids can be prevented from being introduced into the heater module 30 from the third insertion space 24 and the second insertion space 34, thereby avoiding contact with the second substrate 36 or the lead 359, thus enabling the suppression of failure or malfunction.

[0088] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 The second engaging groove 15 can open inward from the side wall 11 of the body 10. The second engaging hook 425 can be fastened to the second engaging groove 15 in order to engage the inner cover 40 to the body 10.

[0089] Wings 422 may be configured to pivot in and out relative to cover plate 421. The wings 422 and the sides 412 of the inner cover body 41 may be spaced apart to define a pivoting space 45 for allowing the wings 422 to pivot. The wings 422 may pivot in a direction toward or away from the sides 412 of the inner cover body 41. A user may press a pair of wings 422 inward with his or her hand to cause the pair of wings 422 to pivot. When the user removes his or her hand from the pair of wings 422, the pair of wings 422 may pivot to return to their original position.

[0090] When the user presses the wing 422 inward to pivot the wing 422, the second engagement hook 425 can disengage or engage with the second engagement groove 15, thereby allowing the inner cover 40 to easily disengage or engage with the body 10 (see [link]). Figure 20 Additionally, this allows the user to easily remove or replace the heater module 30 (see...). Figure 20 ).

[0091] The second connecting hook 425 may be tilted upward so as to gradually protrude outward toward its upper side. The upper end of the second connecting hook 425 may extend horizontally.

[0092] Therefore, when the inner cover 40 is pressed downward toward the body 10, the second engaging hook 425 can slide onto the side wall 11 of the body 10, and the wing 422 can pivot inward, allowing the inner cover 40 to engage more easily with the body 10, thereby improving ease of assembly. Furthermore, structural stability is achieved because the inner cover 40 will not separate from the body 10 unless the wing 422 pivots.

[0093] The third connecting hook 415 may be tilted downward so as to gradually protrude outward toward its lower side. The lower end of the third connecting hook 415 may extend horizontally.

[0094] Therefore, when the inner cover head 42 is pressed against the underside of the inner cover body 41, the lower end of the wing 422 can slide downwards onto the third engaging hook 415, and the third engaging hook 415 can be inserted into the engaging groove 424, thereby improving the ease of assembly. In addition, since the inner cover head 42 does not separate upwards from the inner cover body 41, structural stability can be achieved.

[0095] Reference Figures 1 to 20According to one aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus includes: a body including a first opening leading to a first insertion space; a heater module configured to be removably inserted into the first insertion space, wherein the heater module includes: a heater holder including a second opening leading to a second insertion space, wherein the heater is disposed in the second insertion space, a frame coupled to the heater holder, and a substrate coupled to the frame and having a memory mounted on the substrate configured to store specific information about the heater; and a controller disposed in the body and configured to control the operation of the heater based on receiving specific information about the heater from the memory.

[0096] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the frame may include a groove configured to receive an inserted substrate.

[0097] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a groove may be formed on the side of the frame covering the heater holder, wherein a substrate may be inserted into an opening at the top of the groove to face the side of the heater holder.

[0098] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the frame may include an insertion guide surface located near the opening of the slot and having an angled surface to guide the substrate into the slot.

[0099] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the groove may be defined by a support extending between one side of the heater holder and the frame to secure the substrate.

[0100] According to another aspect of this disclosure, leads for electrically connecting the heater and the substrate to each other may also be provided, wherein the leads are disposed between the heater holder and the frame.

[0101] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the frame may include a lower portion that supports a lower portion of the heater holder. Leads may be accommodated between the lower portion of the heater holder and the lower portion of the frame.

[0102] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the substrate may include a positioning groove recessed on the top of the substrate, and the heater holder may include a positioning protrusion configured to insert into the positioning groove to align the substrate.

[0103] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include: a terminal hole formed at the lower end of a side portion of the frame and configured to allow module terminals disposed on the substrate to be exposed through the terminal hole; and a lead having a first end connected to a heater and a second end connected to a second surface of the substrate, wherein a body terminal disposed at the lower portion of the first insertion space is configured to contact the module terminals exposed through the terminal hole when the heater module is inserted into the first insertion space.

[0104] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the module terminals may include a first module terminal connected to the heater; and a second module terminal connected to the memory.

[0105] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the first opening may be non-circular and correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the frame to allow the frame to be inserted into the first opening.

[0106] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include: a first engagement groove formed at one of the heater holder and the frame; and a first engagement hook formed at the other of the heater holder and the frame, such that the first engagement hook is configured to engage the first engagement groove to secure the heater holder and the frame together.

[0107] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include an inner cover detachably coupled to the upper part of the body to cover the upper part of the body and the heater holder, wherein the inner cover includes an insertion hole corresponding to the second insertion space, and wherein the heater holder is detachably coupled to the inner cover.

[0108] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a first seal for providing a seal between the heater holder and the inner cover; and a second seal for providing a seal between the inner cover and the body.

[0109] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the inner cover may include a retainer recess configured to receive insertion of the upper end of the heater retainer, wherein a first seal extends along the outer peripheral surface of the upper end of the heater retainer to provide a seal between the heater retainer inserted into the retainer recess and the inner cover.

[0110] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the inner cover may include: a cover plate covering the upper part of the body and the upper part of the heater holder, and formed to define an insertion hole; and a pair of wings extending downward from opposite sides of the cover plate to cover corresponding lateral sides of the upper part of the body and corresponding sides of the heater holder, wherein the pair of wings are configured to be detachably attached to the body.

[0111] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the upper part of the body includes a pair of second engagement grooves formed inwardly facing the sidewall, wherein each of the pair of wings includes a second engagement hook that projects outwardly and is configured to engage with the corresponding second engagement groove, and wherein the pair of wings is configured to pivot inwardly relative to the inner cover plate to allow the second engagement hook to disengage from the second engagement groove.

[0112] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the outer surface of each second coupling hook is angled inward relative to the downward direction.

[0113] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the wing may include a pair of third engagement grooves respectively formed above the second engagement hook, and wherein the inner cover includes an inner cover body disposed below the inner cover head and covered by the wing, and wherein the inner cover includes a pair of third engagement hooks that protrude outward from the side of the inner cover body and are configured to engage with the third engagement grooves respectively.

[0114] According to another aspect of this disclosure, the aerosol generating device may also include a second seal to provide a seal between the inner cover and the inner cover body.

[0115] The above-described embodiments or other embodiments of this disclosure are not mutually exclusive or different from each other. Any or all elements of the above-described embodiments of this disclosure may be combined or integrated with each other in construction or function.

[0116] For example, construction "A" described in one embodiment and accompanying drawings of this disclosure and construction "B" described in another embodiment and accompanying drawings of this disclosure can be combined with each other. That is, although combinations between constructions are not directly described, combinations are possible except for describing cases where combinations are not possible.

[0117] Although embodiments have been described with reference to several illustrative examples, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments will arise in the hands of those skilled in the art, which will fall within the scope of the principles of this disclosure. More specifically, various changes and modifications can be made to the component portions and / or arrangements of the subject matter arrangement within the scope of this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to changes and modifications to the component portions and / or arrangements, alternative uses will also be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: Heater retainer, providing insertion space with an opening at the top; A cover that covers the heater retainer and has an insertion hole communicating with the insertion space; A heater, incorporated into the heater holder; as well as A first seal provides a seal between the heater retainer and the cover. The first seal is positioned higher than the heater in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a heater rod disposed in the insertion space and having a cavity formed therein. in, The heater is disposed within the cavity of the heater rod.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein, The first seal has an annular shape surrounding the upper outer periphery of the heater retainer.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The first seal is elastic.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The heater is spaced upwards from the bottom of the heater holder.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a battery. in, The heater is configured to generate heat using electricity received from the battery.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The heater rod is formed using ceramic material.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a lead wire connected to the heater and transmitting power to the heater. in, The lead wire extends to the outside of the heater retainer through a bottom opening formed in the heater rod.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sensor configured to sense a value related to the temperature of the heater.

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