Aerosol generating apparatus

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device includes a body providing an insertion space with one side open, a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising a first container storing a liquid therein, and a second container disposed adjacent to the first container and having a wick configured to receive the liquid supplied from the first container and a heater configured to heat the wick therein, a first flow path communicating the insertion space and an inside of the second container, and a second flow path provided such that external air is introduced thereinto, and communicating with the first flow path at one side of the first flow path, and a first membrane having selective permeability is disposed in the first flow path.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device.[Background Art]

[0002] An aerosol-generating device is a device that extracts certain components from a medium or a substance by generating an aerosol. The medium may contain a multicomponent substance. The substance contained in the medium may be a multicomponent flavoring substance. For example, the substance contained in the medium may include a nicotine component, an herbal component, and / or a coffee component. Recently, various studies on aerosol-generating devices have been conducted.

[0003] An aerosol generated from an aerosol-generating device is a high-temperature gas, and may be cooled while flowing through the device before being inhaled by a user. However, depending on the usage environment of the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol may include heated moisture, and the moisture may be inhaled by the user without being sufficiently cooled. In this case, the user may feel a sense of difference. In addition, the possibility of the user being burned by the heated moisture may not be ruled out.

[0004] However, the conventional aerosol-generating device has a problem in that it does not have a unit to prevent a liquid from leaking to the inside of the aerosol.[Disclosure][Technical Problem]

[0005] It is an object of the present disclosure to solve the above and other problems.

[0006] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device in which a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of a cartridge.

[0007] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device in which a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of a body.

[0008] It is still yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol-generating device having an additional flow path configured to compensate for changes in inhalation resistance.[Technical Solution]

[0009] According to one aspect of the present disclosure to achieve the above and other objects, there is provided an aerosol-generating device including a body providing an insertion space with one side open, a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising a first container storing a liquid therein, and a second container disposed adjacent to the first container and having a wick configured to receive the liquid supplied from the first container and a heater configured to heat the wick therein, a first flow path communicating the insertion space and an inside of the second container, and a second flow path provided such that external air is introduced thereinto, and communicating with the first flow path at one side of the first flow path, wherein a first membrane having selective permeability is disposed in the first flow path.[Advantageous effects]

[0010] According to at least one of embodiments of the present disclosure, a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of a cartridge, thereby being capable of preventing a high-temperature liquid from leaking out of the cartridge, and thus reducing a sense of heat felt by a user.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of the cartridge, thereby being capable of preventing a liquid from leaking out of the cartridge.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a membrane is disposed on a flow path of a body, thereby being capable of reducing a problem in that liquid droplets generated by cooling an aerosol flowing in the body are inhaled by a user.

[0013] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an additional flow path structure is provided in the cartridge, thereby being capable of compensating for an increase in inhalation resistance by a membrane.

[0014] Additional applications of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, because various changes and modifications will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are merely given by way of example.[Description of Drawings]

[0015] FIGs. 1 and 2 are views showing aerosol-generating devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing combination of a body, a cartridge, and an upper case of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing combination of a body, a cartridge, and an upper case of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a body and the cartridge of the aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a combined cross-sectional view of the body and the cartridge of the aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol-generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol-generating device according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol-generating device according to still yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Mode for Invention]

[0016] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals even though they are depicted in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0017] In the following description, with respect to constituent elements used in the following description, the suffixes "module" and "unit" are used only in consideration of facilitation of description, and do not have mutually distinguished meanings or functions.

[0018] In addition, in the following description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a detailed description of known functions and configurations incorporated herein will be omitted when the same may make the subject matter of the embodiments of the present disclosure rather unclear. In addition, the accompanying drawings are provided only for a better understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the technical ideas of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the accompanying drawings include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the scope and sprit of the present disclosure.

[0019] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", etc., may be used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one component from another component.

[0020] It will be understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected to" or "coupled to" another component, it may be directly connected to or coupled to another component, or intervening components may be present. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another component, it is to be understood that there are no intervening components present.

[0021] As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0022] Throughout the following description, the direction of an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge may be defined based on an orthogonal coordinate system. In the orthogonal coordinate system, an x-axis direction may be defined as the leftward or rightward direction of the aerosol-generating device and the cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, a +x direction may indicate the rightward direction, and a -x direction may indicate the leftward direction. A y-axis direction may be defined as the forward or rearward direction of the aerosol-generating device and the cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, a +y direction may indicate the rearward direction, and a -y direction may indicate the forward direction. A z-axis direction may be defined as the upward or downward direction of the aerosol-generating device and the cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, a +z direction may indicate the upward direction, and a -z direction may indicate the downward direction.

[0023] Throughout the following description, "upstream" and "downstream" may be determined based on the direction of an airflow provided so that a generated aerosol is inhaled into the user's mouth or lungs when the user inhales air. For example, in FIGs. 1 and 2, the generated aerosol flows from a portion of a stick S inserted into the aerosol-generating device to a non-inserted portion, and thus, the inserted portion of the stick S is located upstream of the non-inserted portion. "Upstream" and "downstream" may be determined relatively between components.

[0024] FIGs. 1 and 2 are views showing aerosol-generating devices according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Referring to FIGs. 1 and 2, an aerosol-generating device 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of a power supply 11, a controller 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18 or a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, the controller 12, the sensor 13, or the heater 18 may be disposed in a body 10 of the aerosol-generating device. The body 10 may define a space having an open top to allow a stick S, which is an aerosol-generating article, to be inserted thereinto. The space having an open top may be referred to as an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed so as to be depressed to a predetermined depth toward the interior of the body 10 so that the stick S is inserted at least partway thereinto. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the portion of the stick S that contains an aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S may be inserted into the body 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude to the outside of the body 10. A user may inhale air in a state of holding the upper end of the stick S, which is exposed to the outside, in the mouth.

[0026] The heater 18 may heat a stick S. The heater 18 may be disposed around a space into which the stick S is inserted and may be elongated upward. For example, the heater 18 may be formed in a shape of a tube including a cavity formed therein. The heater 18 may be disposed around an insertion space. The heater 18 may be disposed so as to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater 18 may heat the insertion space or the stick S inserted into the insertion space. The heater 18 may include an electro-resistive heater and / or an induction heater.

[0027] For example, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 may include an electrically conductive track and may be heated as current flows through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to the power supply 11. The heater 18 may directly generate heat using current received from the power supply 11.

[0028] For example, the aerosol-generating device may include an induction coil surrounding the heater 18. The induction coil may cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18 as a susceptor may generate heat using a magnetic field generated by alternating current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field may pass through the heater 18 to generate an eddy current in the heater 18. The current may cause the heater 18 to generate heat.

[0029] Meanwhile, a susceptor may be included in the stick S, and the susceptor in the stick S may generate heat using a magnetic field generated by alternating current flowing through the induction coil.

[0030] The cartridge 19 may contain therein an aerosol-generating substance in a liquid state, a solid state, a gas state, or a gel state. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid including a tobacco-containing material having a volatile tobacco flavor component or may be a liquid including a non-tobacco material.

[0031] The cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 or may be detachably coupled to the body 10.

[0032] For example, referring to FIG. 1, the cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 and may communicate with the insertion space through a gasflow channel CN.

[0033] For example, referring to FIG. 2, a space may be defined in one side of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 may be mounted in the body 10 in such a manner that at least a portion of the cartridge 19 is inserted into the space defined in one side of the body 10. The gasflow channel CN may be defined by a portion of the cartridge and / or a portion of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 may communicate with the insertion space through the gasflow channel CN.

[0034] The body 10 may be formed in a structure that allows outside air to be introduced into the body 10 in a state in which the cartridge 19 is inserted thereinto. In this case, the outside air introduced into the body 10 may pass through the cartridge 19 to enter the user's mouth.

[0035] The cartridge 19 may include a storage portion C1 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 configured to heat the aerosol-generating substance in the storage portion C1. The storage portion C1 may be referred to as a container. At least a portion of a liquid delivery element 35(see FIG. 6) impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be disposed in the storage portion C1. Here, the liquid delivery element may include a wick, such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in a coil-shaped structure that is wound around the liquid delivery element or a structure that is in contact with one side of the liquid delivery element. The heater 24 may be referred to as a cartridge heater 24.

[0036] The cartridge 19 may generate an aerosol. As the liquid delivery element is heated by the cartridge heater 24, an aerosol may be generated. An aerosol may be generated by heating the stick S using the heater 18. While the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and the heater 18 passes through the stick S, the aerosol may be mixed with a tobacco material, and the aerosol mixed with the tobacco material may be drawn into the user's mouth through one end of the stick S.

[0037] The aerosol-generating device 1 may be provided only with the cartridge heater 24, and the body 10 may not be provided with the heater 18. In this case, while the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 passes through the stick S, the aerosol may be mixed with a tobacco material, and the aerosol mixed with the tobacco material may be drawn into the user's mouth.

[0038] The aerosol-generating device 1 may include an upper case (not shown). The upper case may be detachably coupled to the body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 19 coupled to the body 10. The stick S may be inserted into the body 10 through the upper case.

[0039] The power supply 11 may supply power so that components of the aerosol-generating device operate. The power supply 11 may be referred to as a battery. The power supply 11 may supply power to at least one of the controller 12, the sensor 13, or the heater 18. The power supply 11 may supply power to the induction coil.

[0040] The controller 12 may control overall operation of the aerosol-generating device. The controller may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller 12 may control operation of at least one of the power supply 11, the sensor 13, the heater 18 or the cartridge 19. The controller 12 may control operation of a display, a motor, etc. mounted in the aerosol-generating device. The controller 12 may check the state of each of the components of the aerosol-generating device and may determine whether the aerosol-generating device is in an operable state.

[0041] The controller 12 may analyze a result of detection by the sensor 13 and may control subsequent processes. For example, the controller 12 may control, based on a result of detection by the sensor 13, power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 so that operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 commences or ends. For example, the controller 12 may control, based on a result of detection by the sensor 13, the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 and a power supply time so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or is maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0042] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion detection sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, or an upper case detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, or the internal / external temperature of the body 10. For example, the sensor 13 may detect a user puff. For example, the sensor 13 may detect whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, the sensor 13 may detect whether the cartridge is mounted. For example, the sensor 13 may detect whether the upper case is mounted.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing combination of a body, a cartridge, and an upper case of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 3.

[0044] Referring to FIGs. 3 and 4, in an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a body B100 may include an upper body B120 and a lower body B110. The upper body B120 may be located on the upper part of the lower body B110. The lower body B110 extends vertically. The body B100 may accommodate components to drive the device therein. The upper body B120 may provide an insertion space B134 that is open upward. The insertion space B134 may be formed in a pipe B130 located within the upper body B120.

[0045] An upper case B200 may have a hollow shape with an open bottom. The upper body B120 may be inserted into the hollow of the upper case B200. The upper case B200 may be detachably coupled to the body B100. The upper case B200 may cover the upper body B120 to surround the same. A lateral part (lateral portion) B211 of the upper case B200 may cover a side wall B121 of the upper body B120 to surround the same. An upper part B212 of the upper case B200 may cover an upper part B180 of the upper body B120. When the upper case B200 is coupled to the body B100, the upper case B200 may cover both the body B100 and a cartridge B300. The cartridge B300 may be disposed in the upper case B200.

[0046] An insertion hole B214 may be formed by opening the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. The insertion hole B214 may correspond to an opening of an insertion space B134. A cover B215 may be movably installed on the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. A slide hole B213 may be formed to extend from the insertion hole S214 to one side in the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. The cover B215 may move along the slide hole B213. The cover B215 may open and close the insertion hole B214 and the insertion space B134. A stick S may be inserted into the insertion space B134 through the insertion hole B214. For example, the stick S may be a cigarette.

[0047] An outer wall B121 and a partition wall B125 may form a lateral part (lateral portion) of the upper body B120. The outer wall B121 and the partition wall B125 may be connected. The outer wall B121 may be covered by the inner surface of the upper case B200. The partition wall B125 may separate a cartridge coupling space B124a and the insertion space B134.

[0048] The upper body B120 may include a mounting part B122. The mounting part B122 may extend from the lower part of the partition wall B125 to one side. The mounting part B122 may be formed on the upper part of the lower body B110. The mounting part B122 may cover the lower part of the coupling space B124a. The bottom surface of the cartridge B300 may be mounted on the mounting part B122 to be supported thereby.

[0049] The upper body B120 may include an extension B140. The extension B140 may extend from the upper part of the partition wall B125 to one side. The extension B140 may extend in a direction in which the mounting part B122 is formed. The extension B140 may cover the upper part of the cartridge coupling space B124a. The extension B140 may cover the upper surface of the cartridge B300. The extension B140 may cover a cartridge inlet B301 formed in the cartridge B300. A gap through which air may flow may be formed between the extension B140 and the cartridge inlet B301.

[0050] The cartridge coupling space B124a may be formed on one side of the upper body B120. The cartridge coupling space B124a may be defined by the mounting part B122, the partition wall B125, and the extension B140 of the upper body B120. The bottom of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the mounting part B122. One side of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the partition wall B125. The upper part of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the extension B140. The cartridge coupling space B124a may be open outward between the mounting part B122 and the extension B140.

[0051] The cartridge B300 may be inserted into the coupling space B124a and coupled to the body B100. The cartridge B300 may be detachably coupled to the body B100. One side surface B311 of the cartridge B300 may face the partition wall B125. An upper surface B312 of the cartridge B300 may be covered by the extension B140. A bottom surface B322 of the cartridge B300 may be mounted on the mounting part B122. A cartridge terminal B128 may be connected to the cartridge B300 to supply power to a heater B342 in the cartridge B300.

[0052] A coupling hook B125a may be formed on the upper body B120. A pusher B125b may be formed on the upper body B120. The coupling hook B125a and the pusher B125b may be formed as a pair on both sides to be disposed at opposite positions. The cartridge B300 may include a hook coupling groove B315. The hook coupling groove B315 may be formed at a position corresponding to the coupling hook B125a. When the cartridge B300 is inserted into the coupling space B124a, the coupling hook B125a may be coupled to the hook coupling groove B315 to couple the cartridge B300 and the body B100 to each other. The pusher B125b and the coupling hook B125a may move in conjunction with each other. When the pusher B125b is pressed, the coupling hook B125a may move in a direction in which it is separated from the hook coupling groove B315, and the cartridge B300 may be separated from the body B100.

[0053] A connection path B133 may be formed in the lower part of the partition wall B125. The connection path B133 may communicate with the insertion space B134. The connection path B133 may be open to one side of the upper body B120. When the cartridge B300 is coupled to the body B100, a discharge port B323 may be inserted into the connection path B133, and the connection path B133 and a cartridge outlet B304 may communicate with each other.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing combination of a body, a cartridge, and an upper case of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 5.

[0055] Referring to FIGs. 5 and 6, an aerosol-generating device A100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a body A3. The aerosol-generating device A100 may include an upper case A30. The aerosol-generating device A100 may include a cartridge A40. The cartridge A40 may be detachably coupled to one side of the body A3. The upper case A30 may be detachably coupled to the body A3 to cover the cartridge A40. A stick S may be inserted into the body A3 by penetrating the upper case A30.

[0056] The body A3 may include a lower body A1 and an upper body A2. Components of the aerosol-generating device A100, such as a battery and a controller, may be installed in the lower body A1. The upper body A2 may be coupled to the upper part of the lower body A1.

[0057] The upper body A2 may include a column A10 and a mounting part A20. The column A10 may extend in the vertical direction. The column A10 may have an outer wall A11, an inner wall A12, and an upper wall A13.

[0058] The mounting part A20 may protrude from the lower part of the inner wall A12 of the column A10. The mounting part A20 may face upward. A cartridge area A24 may be formed between the inner wall A12 of the column A10 and the mounting part A20. The cartridge area A24 may be located on one side of the of the inner wall A12 of the column A10, and be located above the mounting part A20.

[0059] The column A10 may include an insertion space A142. The insertion space A142 may extend in the vertical direction within the column A10, and be open upward through the upper wall A13.

[0060] A body inlet A141 may be formed in one side of the column A10. The body inlet A141 may be formed by opening the inner wall A12. The body inlet A141 may be open to the outside of the column A10. The body inlet A141 may communicate with the insertion space A142. The body inlet A141 may be disposed to face the cartridge area A24. The body inlet A141 may communicate with the cartridge area A24.

[0061] The cartridge A40 may be detachably coupled to the upper body A1 in the cartridge area A24. The cartridge A40 may be coupled to the inner wall A12 of the column A10, and be mounted on the mounting part A20 so that the bottom of the cartridge A40 may be supported thereby. The cartridge A40 may have a first container A41 and a second container A42. The first container A41 may be disposed on the upper part of the second container A41. The first container A41 may store a liquid.

[0062] The upper case A30 may be detachably coupled to the body A3 while covering the upper body A2. The upper case A30 may cover the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 coupled to the upper body A2. A space into which the upper body A2 and the cartridge 40 are inserted may be formed in the upper case A30. The space within the upper case A30 may be open downward. A side wall A31 of the upper case A30 may surround the side part of the space within the upper case A30. An upper wall A33 of the upper case A30 may cover the upper part of the space within the upper case A30. An insertion hole A34 may be formed by opening the upper wall A33. When the upper case A30 is coupled to the body A3, the insertion hole A34 may communicate with the insertion space A142 from the upper part of the insertion space A142. A cover A35 may be movably installed on the upper wall A33. The cover A35 may slide on the upper wall A33. The cover A35 may open and close the insertion hole A34.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a body and the cartridge of the aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a combined cross-sectional view of the body and the cartridge of the aerosol-generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 7, a cartridge 19 may be coupled to a body 10 of an aerosol-generating device 1. The cartridge 19 may include the features of the cartridges 19, A40, and B300 of FIGs. 1 to 6 described above.

[0065] The cartridge 19 may include a first container 31 and a second container 32. The second container 32 may be coupled to the lower part of the first container 31. A plate 35 may be coupled between the first container 31 and the second container 32.

[0066] The first container 31 may have a first chamber C1 capable of storing a liquid formed therein. The first container 31 may be formed of a transparent plastic or glass material. The first container 31 may surround the first chamber C1, and the lower portion of the first chamber C1 may be open. The opening of the first chamber C1 may be covered by the plate 35.

[0067] The second container 32 may be coupled to the lower part of the first container 31. The second container 32 may have a space configured such that the upper portion thereof is open and the lower portion thereof is covered. The second container 32 may have a second chamber C2 formed therein. The upper portion of the second chamber C2 may be covered by the plate 35.

[0068] The plate 35 may be coupled between the first container 31 and the second container 32. The plate 35 may cover and seal the open portion of the second chamber C1. The plate 35 may cover and seal the open portion of the second chamber C2. The lower surface of the plate 35 may be exposed within the second chamber C2. The lower surface of the plate 35 may cover the upper portion of the second chamber C2.

[0069] A wick 25 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The wick 25 may have a cylindrical shape that extends horizontally. The wick 25 may be connected to the first chamber C1 to receive the liquid from the first chamber C1. Both ends of the wick 25 may be connected to the first chamber C1 through liquid inlets provided in the plate 35. The wick 25 may be wetted by the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlets of the plate 35. The wick 25 may be fixed in the second container 32.

[0070] A heater 24 may be wound around the center of the wick 25. The heater may be referred to as a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater 24 may be heated to heat the wick 25. For example, the cartridge heater 24 mat be a resistive heater. The cartridge heater 24 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. An end of the cartridge heater 24 may be electrically connected to an electrode disposed on the bottom of the second container 32.

[0071] The first container 31 may have an inflow path 302 through which air may pass. The inflow path 302 may extend vertically on one side of the first container 31. The first chamber C1 and the inflow path 302 may be formed parallel to each other.

[0072] The first container 31 may have a cartridge inlet 301. The cartridge inlet may be referred to as a first cartridge inlet. The cartridge inlet 301 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The cartridge inlet 301 may be formed by opening the upper part of the first container 31. The cartridge inlet 301 may communicate with the outside. Air outside the cartridge 19 may be introduced into the cartridge 19 through the cartridge inlet 301.

[0073] The cartridge inlet 301 may communicate with the inflow path 302. The upper end of the inflow path 302 may communicate with the cartridge inlet 301. The lower end of the inflow path 302 may communicate with a chamber inlet 303.

[0074] The second container 32 may have the chamber inlet 303. The chamber inlet 303 may be formed by opening one surface of a side wall that surrounds the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 303 may be bent upward to extend from the second chamber C2 toward the inflow path 302. One end of the chamber inlet 303 may communicate with the second chamber C2 and the other end of the chamber inlet 303 may be connected to the inflow path 302.

[0075] A side wall 311 of the first container 31 may include a first path side wall 3113 and a second path side wall 3114. The first path side wall 3113 and the second path side wall 3114 may form a part of the side wall 311 of the first container 31.

[0076] The first path side wall 3113 may be disposed in the first container 31. The first path side wall 3113 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second path side wall 3114 may form a part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second path side wall 3114 may face the first path side wall 3113 and be spaced outward from the first path side wall 3113. The first path side wall 3113 and the second path side wall 3114 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first path side wall 3113 and the second path side wall 3114 may extend in the vertical direction. The inflow path 302 may be formed between the first path side wall 3113 and the second path side wall 3114.

[0077] A first surface 3021 of the inflow path 302 may be formed by a part of the first path side wall 3113. A second surface 3022 of the inflow path 302 may be formed by a part of the second path side wall 3114. The first surface 3021 and the second surface 3022 may extend in the vertical direction and face each other.

[0078] The inflow path 302 may be provided with a plurality of protrusions 3023. The plurality of protrusions 3023 may protrude in a direction intersecting the vertical direction from the first surface 3021 and / or the second surface 3022. The plurality of protrusions 3023 is disposed in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction or the vertical direction of the inflow path 302, so as to traverse the inflow path 302 and close a part of one end of the inflow path 302.

[0079] At least some of the plurality of protrusions 3023 may protrude from the first surface 3021, and the remainder may protrude from the second surface 3022. The plurality of protrusions 3023 may include first protrusions 3023A protruding from the first surface 3021 and second protrusions 3023B protruding from the second surface 3022. The plurality of protrusions 3023 may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first protrusions 3023A and the second protrusions 3023B may be arranged alternately on the first surface 3021 and the second surface 3022.

[0080] Accordingly, the plurality of protrusions 3023 may prevent the liquid or droplets within the cartridge 19 from leaking out of the cartridge through the inflow path 302 and the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0081] The second container 32 may be provided with a cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet may be referred to as an outlet. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed on one side part 321 of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed inside a discharge port 323 protruding in the thickness direction from the side part 321 of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with the inner space of the second container 32.

[0082] A discharge path 305 may be formed in the discharge port 323. The cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with the second chamber C2 through the discharge path 305. The discharge path 305 may form a part of a first flow path 51. The first flow path 51 may be defined as a flow path that connects an insertion space 434 (see FIGs. 8 and 9) formed in the body 10 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19. The second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19 may be connected to one side of the discharge path 305. The second chamber C2 may communicate with the inside of the body 10 through the discharge path 305 and the outlet 304.

[0083] Air may be introduced into the cartridge 19 through the cartridge inlet 301 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 19 through the cartridge outlet 304. The air introduced into the cartridge 19 may sequentially pass through the inflow path 302, the chamber inlet 303, the second chamber C2, the discharge path 305, and the cartridge outlet 304 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 19.

[0084] When the cartridge heater 24 is heated to heat the wick 25, an aerosol may be generated from the wick 25 within the second chamber C2. The air having passed through the cartridge 19 along with the aerosol in the second chamber C2 may be discharged to the cartridge outlet 304.

[0085] A second flow path 52 may be formed in one side of the first container 31 and / or the second container 32. Air outside the cartridge 19 may pass through the second flow path 52. One side of the second flow path 52 may be open toward the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with the first flow path 51.

[0086] The side wall 311 of the first container 31 may include a first side wall 3111 and a second side wall 3112. The first side wall may be referred to as an inner wall, and the second side wall may be referred to an outer wall. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 may form a part of the side wall 311 of the first container 31.

[0087] The first side wall 3111 may be disposed in the first container 31. The first side wall 3111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second side wall 3112 may form a part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second side wall 3112 may face the first side wall 3111 and be spaced outward from the first side wall 3111. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 may extend in the vertical direction. A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112.

[0088] An upper wall 312 of the first container 31 may include a first upper wall 3121 and a second upper wall 3122. The first upper wall may be referred to as an inner upper wall, and the second upper wall may be referred to as an outer upper wall. The first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122 may form a part of the upper wall 312 of the first container 31.

[0089] The first upper wall 3121 may be disposed in the first container 31. The first upper wall 3121 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second upper wall 3122 may form a part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second upper wall 3122 may face the first upper wall 3121 and be spaced outward from the first upper wall 3121. The first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first upper wall 3211 and the second upper wall 3122 may extend in the lateral direction. A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122.

[0090] The first container 31 may have a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. Air outside the cartridge 19 may be introduced into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0091] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the discharge path 305 that forms a part of the first flow path 51.

[0092] The second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51 at one side of the first flow path 51. A junction 53 where the second flow path 52 joins the first flow path 51 may be formed in the first flow path 52. The junction 53 where the second flow path 52 joins the discharge path 305 may be formed in the discharge path 305 that forms a part of the first flow path 51. The junction 53 may be formed by opening one side of the discharge path 305.

[0093] Air introduced through the second cartridge inlet 306 may flow in the second flow path 52 and flow into the first flow path 51 through the junction 53. The air in the first flow path 51 may be mixed with the aerosol in the first flow path 51, and then flow into the body 10 through the first flow path 51.

[0094] The first flow path 51 may be provided with a first membrane 54. The first membrane 54 may be disposed in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first flow path 51, so as to traverse the first flow path 51 and close one cross-section of the first flow path 51. The first membrane 54 may be disposed in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the discharge path 305 that forms a part of the first flow path 51, so as to traverse the discharge path 305 and close one cross-section of the discharge path 305.

[0095] The first membrane 54 may be a membrane having selective permeability. The first membrane 54 may be a film. The first membrane 54 may allow a fluid to selectively pass therethrough. The first membrane 54 may not transmit a liquid. The first membrane 54 may transmit a gas. The first membrane 54 may transmit an aerosol in a gaseous state. The first membrane 54 may be formed of a fabric. The first membrane 54 may be formed of a synthetic resin. The synthetic resin may have selective permeability. The first membrane 54 may be formed in a lattice structure but is not limited thereto, and may be formed in various shapes and thicknesses.

[0096] The first membrane 54 may be disposed upstream of the junction 53 on the first flow path 51. The first membrane 54 may be disposed upstream of the junction 53 on the discharge path 305 that defines a part of the first flow path 51. The first membrane 54 may be disposed between the junction 53 and the second chamber C2. The first membrane 54 may block the liquid existing in the second chamber C2 so as not to flow to the outside of the cartridge 19 through the discharge path 305 and the cartridge outlet 304. The first membrane 54 may block the liquid in the second chamber C2 so as not to flow to the outside of the cartridge 19 through the second flow path 52 and the second inlet 306. The first membrane 54 may block the liquid in the second chamber C2 so as not to be inhaled by a user through the cartridge 19 and the body 10.

[0097] Therefore, a problem in which the liquid leaks out of the cartridge may be reduced, and a sense of heat that the user may feel when inhaling a high-temperature liquid may be reduced.

[0098] Accordingly, an increase in inhalation resistance by the membrane may be compensated for by additionally providing the second flow path in the cartridge.

[0099] The width of the second flow path 52 may be smaller than the width of the first flow path 51. For example, the maximum width of the second flow path 52 may be smaller than the width of the discharge path 305 that defines a part of the first flow path 51. For example, the maximum width of the second flow path 52 may be smaller than the width of a connection path 433 that defines a part of the first flow path 51.

[0100] The inhalation resistance for the fluid that flows through the first flow path 51 may be increased by disposing the first membrane 54 on the first flow path 51 through which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 flows. When the inhalation resistance of the first flow path 51 increases, even if the user inhales with the same force, the amount of the aerosol and / or air that may be inhaled by the user may be reduced.

[0101] The cartridge 19 according to one embodiment may additionally have the second flow path 52, thereby being capable of compensating for the reduction in the amount of the aerosol and / or air that the user may inhale. However, if the amount of the flow of the fluid through the second flow path 52 is greater than the amount of the flow of the fluid through the second flow path 51, the user may feel a sense of difference when inhaling.

[0102] Because the second flow path 52 is provided to have a narrower width than the width of the first flow path 51, the sense of difference that the user may feel when inhaling may be reduced. That is, a ratio of the inhalation resistance of the second flow path 52 to the inhalation resistance of the first flow path 51 may be appropriately adjusted through a ratio of the width of the second flow path 52 to the width of the first flow path 51.

[0103] The second flow path 52 may be provided with a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be disposed between one end and the other end of the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed in a direction intersecting a direction in which the second flow path 52 extends, so as to traverse the second flow path 52 and close one cross-section of the second flow path 52.

[0104] The second membrane 55 may be a membrane having selective permeability. The second membrane 55 may have the same or similar properties as or to the first membrane 54. For example, the second membrane 55 may be formed of the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0105] The second membrane 55 may be disposed upstream of the junction 53 on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the second flow path 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19, on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second flow path 52.

[0106] The second membrane 52 may block a liquid outside the cartridge 19 so as not to be introduced into the cartridge 19. The second membrane 52 may block the liquid or droplets generated in the first flow path 51 and / or the second flow path 52 so as not to leak out of the cartridge 19 through the second inlet 306.

[0107] Accordingly, a problem in that the liquid leaks out of the cartridge may be reduced.

[0108] The second membrane 55 may act as a flow resistance component to external air flowing into the second flow path 52 by user's inhalation. That is, the second membrane 55 may increase inhalation resistance to fluid flow through the second flow path 52.

[0109] The sense of difference that the user may feel when inhaling may be reduced by disposing the second membrane 55 on the second flow path 52 communicating with the second flow path 51. That is, the ratio of the inhalation resistance of the second flow path 52 to the inhalation resistance of the first flow path 51 may be appropriately adjusted by the second membrane 55.

[0110] Referring to FIGs. 8 and 9, the cartridge 19 may be inserted into a detachment space 424 of the body 10. The cartridge 19 may be detachably coupled to the body 10 in the detachment space 242.

[0111] The body 10 may include an upper body 410 and a lower body 420. The upper body 410 may be disposed on the upper part of the lower body 420. The upper body 410 may be disposed on the upper part of the lower body 420 so as to face the cartridge 19 in parallel. The lower body 420 may accommodate at least one of a power supply 11 and a controller 12 (see FIGs. 1 and 2). The upper body 410 may accommodate at least one of a heater 18 and a sensor 13.

[0112] The upper body 410 may provide the insertion space 434. The insertion space 434 may extend in the longitudinal direction of the upper body 410, and include an insertion hole 4341 formed by opening one side of the insertion space 434. The insertion hole 4341 may be formed by opening a part of an upper wall 412 of the upper body 410. A stick S may be inserted into the insertion space 434. The heater 24 may be disposed around the insertion space 434. The heater 24 may be disposed to surround the insertion space 434.

[0113] A body inlet 435 may be formed in the upper body 410. The body inlet 435 may be formed in a side wall 411 of the upper body 410. The body inlet 435 may be connected to the inside of the cartridge 19. The discharge port 323 of the cartridge 19 may be inserted into the body inlet 435 so that the body inlet 435 and the cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with each other.

[0114] The connection path 433 may be formed in the upper body 410. The connection path 433 may communicate with the insertion space 434 of the body 10 and the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19. The connection path 433 may form a part of the first flow path 51. The connection path 433 may communicate with the discharge path 305 of the cartridge 19. The connection path 433 together with the discharge path 305 form the first flow path 51. A part of the first flow path 51 may be defined by the connection path 433, and the remaining part of the first flow path 51 may be defined by the discharge path 305.

[0115] The body inlet 435 may be disposed lower than the insertion hole 4341. The body inlet 435 and the insertion hole 4341 may communicate with each other. Directions in which the body inlet 435 and the insertion hole 4341 are formed may be different from each other. For example, the insertion hole 4341 may be open in the upward direction of the body 10, and the body inlet 435 may be open in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

[0116] The upper body 410 may have a support surface 422 extending from the lower part of the side wall 411 of the upper body 410 to one side. The support surface 422 may face the lower part of the detachment space 424. The detachment space 424 may be partitioned by the side wall 411 and the support surface 422 of the upper body 410. The detachment space 424 may be disposed parallel to the insertion space 434.

[0117] The cartridge 19 may be coupled to the body 10 in the detachment space 424. The side wall 311 of the cartridge 19 may face the side wall 411 of the upper body 410. A bottom 322 of the cartridge 19 may be in contact with the support surface 422 of the upper body 410 to be supported thereby. The bottom may be referred to as a lower wall. The cartridge 19 may be in contact with the support surface 422 to be electrically connected to other components in the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0118] The first flow path 51 may be provided with a third membrane 56. The third membrane 56 may be disposed in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first flow path 51, so as to traverse the first flow path and close one cross-section of the first flow path.

[0119] The third membrane 56 may be a membrane having selective permeability. The third membrane 56 may have the same or similar properties as or to the first membrane 54. For example, the third membrane 56 may be formed of the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0120] The third membrane 56 may be disposed downstream of the junction 53 on the first flow path 51. The third membrane 56 may be disposed on the connection path 433 that defines a part of the first flow path 51. The third membrane 56 may be disposed between the junction 53 and the insertion space 434. The third membrane 54 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 434 on the first flow path 51. The third membrane 54 may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space 434 on the connection path 433.

[0121] The third membrane 56 may block the liquid or droplets generated in the first flow path 51 and / or the second flow path 52 so as not to flow out of the body 10 through the insertion space 434 and the insertion hole 4341 or not to be inhaled by the user.

[0122] Accordingly, inhalation of the droplets, generated by cooling the aerosol flowing in the body, by the user may be reduced.

[0123] FIGs. 10 to 12 are cross-sectional views of cartridges included in aerosol-generating devices according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 10, a cartridge 19 may have a second flow path 52. A detailed description of the same features of the cartridge 19 shown in FIG. 10 as those of the description of FIGs. 7 to 9 will be omitted.

[0125] The second flow path 52 may be formed in one side of a first container 31 and / or a second container 32. The second flow path 52 may allow air outside the cartridge 19 to pass therethrough. One side of the second flow path 52 may be open toward the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with a first flow path 51.

[0126] A side wall 321 of the second container 32 may include a first side wall 3211 and a second side wall 3212. The first side wall may be referred to as an inner wall, and the second side wall may be referred to an outer wall. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 may form a part of the side wall 321 of the second container 32.

[0127] The first side wall 3211 may be disposed in the second container 32. The first side wall 3211 may be in contact with a second chamber C2. The second side wall 3212 may form a part of the outer wall of the second container 32. The second side wall 3212 may face the first side wall 3211 and be spaced outward from the first side wall 3211. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 may extend in the vertical direction. A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212.

[0128] A lower wall 322 of the second container 32 may include a first lower wall 3221 and a second lower wall 3222. The first lower wall may be referred to as an inner lower wall, and the second lower wall may be referred to as an outer lower wall. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 may form a part of the lower wall 322 of the second container 32.

[0129] The first lower wall 3221 may be disposed in the second container 32. The first lower wall 3221 may be in contact with the second chamber C2. The second lower wall 3222 may form a part of the outer wall of the second container 32. The second lower wall 3222 may face the first lower wall 3221 and be spaced outward from the first lower wall 3221. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 may be disposed parallel to each other. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 may extend in the lateral direction. A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222.

[0130] The second container 32 may have a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. Air outside the cartridge 19 may be introduced into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0131] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with a discharge path 305 that forms a part of the first flow path 51.

[0132] Air introduced through the second cartridge inlet 306 may flow in the second flow path 52 and flow into the first flow path 51 through a junction 53. The air in the first flow path 51 may be mixed with the aerosol in the first flow path 51, and flow into the body 10 through the first flow path 51.

[0133] The second flow path 52 may be provided with a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be disposed between one end and the other end of the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed in a direction intersecting a direction in which the second flow path 52 extends, so as to traverse the second flow path 52 and close one cross-section of the second flow path 52.

[0134] The second membrane 55 may be disposed upstream of the junction 53 on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the second flow path 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19, on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second flow path 52.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 11, a cartridge 19 may have a fourth membrane 57. Among the features of the cartridge 19 illustrated in FIG. 11, a detailed description of the same features as those of the description of FIGs. 7 to 9 will be omitted.

[0136] An inflow path 302 may be provided with the fourth membrane 57. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed between one end and the other end of the inflow path 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed in a direction intersecting a direction in which the inflow path 302 extends, so as to traverse the inflow path 302 and close one cross-section of the inflow path 302.

[0137] The fourth membrane 57 may be a membrane having selective permeability. The fourth membrane 57 may have the same or similar properties as or to the first membrane 54. For example, the fourth membrane 57 may be formed of the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0138] The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the inflow path 302 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19, on the inflow path 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to a first cartridge inlet 301 on the inflow path 302.

[0139] The fourth membrane 57 may block a liquid outside the cartridge 19 so as not to be introduced into the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 may block a liquid or droplets generated in the second chamber C2 and / or the inflow path 302 so as not to leak out of the cartridge 19 through the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0140] Accordingly, a problem in that the liquid leaks out of the cartridge may be reduced.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 12, a cartridge 19 may have a second flow path 52. The cartridge 19 may have a fourth membrane. Among the features of the cartridge 19 illustrated in FIG. 12, a detailed description of the same features as those of the description of FIGs. 7 to 9 will be omitted.

[0142] The second flow path 52 may be formed in one side of a first container 31 and / or a second container 32. The second flow path 52 may allow air outside the cartridge 19 to pass therethrough. One side of the second flow path 52 may be open toward the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with a first flow path 51.

[0143] A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between a first side wall 3211 and a second side wall 3212 of the second container 32. A part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between a first lower wall 3221 and a second lower wall 3222 of the second container 32.

[0144] The second container 32 may have a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. Air outside the cartridge 19 may be introduced into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0145] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with a discharge path 305 that forms a part of the first flow path 51.

[0146] Air introduced through the second cartridge inlet 306 may flow in the second flow path 52 and flow into the first flow path 51 through a junction 53. The air in the first flow path 51 may be mixed with the aerosol in the first flow path 51, and flow into the body 10 through the first flow path 51.

[0147] The second flow path 52 may be provided with a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be disposed between one end and the other end of the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed in a direction intersecting a direction in which the second flow path 52 extends, so as to traverse the second flow path 52 and close one cross-section of the second flow path 52.

[0148] The second membrane 55 may be disposed upstream of the junction 53 on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the second flow path 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19, on the second flow path 52. The second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second flow path 52.

[0149] An inflow path 302 may be provided with the fourth membrane 57. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed between one end and the other end of the inflow path 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed in a direction intersecting a direction in which the inflow path 302 extends, so as to traverse the inflow path 302 and close one cross-section of the inflow path 302.

[0150] The fourth membrane 57 may be a membrane having selective permeability. The fourth membrane 57 may have the same or similar properties as or to the first membrane 54. For example, the fourth membrane 57 may be formed of the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0151] The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the inflow path 302 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19, on the inflow path 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to a first cartridge inlet 301 on the inflow path 302.

[0152] The fourth membrane 57 may block a liquid outside the cartridge 19 so as not to be introduced into the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 may block a liquid or droplets generated in the second chamber C2 and / or the inflow path 302 so as not to leak out of the cartridge 19 through the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0153] Accordingly, a problem in that the liquid leaks out of the cartridge may be reduced.

[0154] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol-generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] The aerosol-generating device 1 may include a power supply 11, a controller 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and one or more heaters 18 and 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol-generating device 1 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 13. That is, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that some of the components shown in FIG. 13 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0156] The sensor 13 may detect the state of the aerosol-generating device 1 or the state of the surrounding of the aerosol-generating device 1 and may transmit information about the detected state to the controller 12. Based on the information about the detected state, the controller 12 may control the aerosol-generating device 1 to perform various functions, such as control of operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, smoking restriction, determination as to whether the stick S and / or the cartridge 19 is inserted, and notification display.

[0157] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131, a puff sensor 132, an insertion detection sensor 133, a reuse detection sensor 134, a cartridge detection sensor 135, an upper case detection sensor 136, a movement detection sensor 137, or a humidity sensor 138.

[0158] The temperature sensor 131 may detect temperature to which the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is heated. The aerosol-generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 itself may serve as a temperature sensor.

[0159] The temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element that changes in resistance value according to a change in temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The temperature sensor may be implemented as a thermistor, which is an element characterized in that the resistance thereof changes with temperature. In this case, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor configured to detect the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. In this case, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0160] The temperature sensor 131 may be disposed around the power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of the power supply 11. The temperature sensor 131 may be disposed adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one surface of the battery, which is the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one surface of a printed circuit board.

[0161] The temperature sensor 131 may be disposed in the body 10 to detect the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0162] The puff sensor 132 may detect a user puff based on various physical changes in a gasflow path. The puff sensor 132 may output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 may output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol-generating device. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol-generating device 1 may correspond to the pressure of the gasflow path through which gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the gasflow path through which gas flows in the aerosol-generating device 1.

[0163] The stick detection sensor 133 may detect insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The stick detection sensor may be referred to as an insertion detection sensor. The insertion detection sensor 133 may detect a signal change caused by insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion detection sensor 133 may be mounted around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 may detect insertion and / or removal of the stick S according to a change in dielectric constant in the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0164] The inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if a magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include a frequency of alternating current, a current value, a voltage value, an inductance value, an impedance value, and the like.

[0165] The inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil. For example, the inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0166] The capacitance sensor may include a conductive body. The conductive body of the capacitance sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor may output a signal corresponding to the electromagnetic characteristics of the surroundings, for example, the capacitance around the conductive body. For example, if the stick S including a metallic wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the electromagnetic characteristics around the conductive body may change due to the wrapper of the stick S.

[0167] The reuse detection sensor 134 may detect whether the stick S is being reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be a color sensor. The color sensor may detect the color of the stick S. The color sensor may detect the color of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outer side of the stick S. The color sensor may detect, based on light reflected from an object, a value for the optical characteristic corresponding to the color of the object. For example, the optical characteristic may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as a component integrated with a proximity sensor or may be implemented as a component provided separately from a proximity sensor.

[0168] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S may change in color due to an aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be disposed at a position corresponding to a position at which at least a portion of the wrapper, which changes in color due to an aerosol, is disposed when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by the user, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may be a first color. In this case, while the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper may become wet due to the aerosol, and accordingly, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may change to a second color. After changing from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may be maintained in the second color.

[0169] The cartridge detection sensor 135 may detect mounting and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (or Hall IC) using the Hall effect, etc.

[0170] The upper case detection sensor 136 may detect mounting and / or removal of the upper case. When the upper case is separated from the body 10, the cartridge 19 and the portion of the body 10 that have been covered by the upper case may be exposed to the outside. The upper case detection sensor 136 may be implemented as a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (or Hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0171] The movement detection sensor 137 may detect movement of the aerosol-generating device. The movement detection sensor 137 may be implemented as at least one of an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor.

[0172] The humidity sensor 138 may detect the humidity of the aerosol-generating device and / or the cartridge. The humidity sensor 138 may detect the humidity of outside air and / or the humidity in the cartridge. The humidity sensor 138 may be implemented as a capacitive sensor or the like. The humidity sensor 138 may be disposed on the outer side of the body 10 or may be located in a path through which outside air is introduced to measure the humidity of the surroundings of the aerosol-generating device 1. The humidity sensor 138 may be located in the storage portion C0 of the cartridge 19 to measure the humidity in the cartridge 19.

[0173] In addition to the sensors 131 to 138 described above, the sensor 13 may further include at least one of a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), or a proximity sensor. The functions of the sensors could be intuitively deduced by those skilled in the art from the names thereof, and thus detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0174] The output unit 14 may output information about the state of the aerosol-generating device 1 and may provide the information to the user. The output unit 14 may include at least one of a display 141, a haptic unit 142, or a sound output unit 143. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. If the display 141 and a touchpad form a touchscreen together in a layered structure, the display 141 may be used as not only an output device but also an input device.

[0175] The display 141 may visually provide information about the aerosol-generating device 1 to the user. For example, the information about the aerosol-generating device 1 may include various pieces of information, such as a charging / discharging state of the power supply 11 of the aerosol-generating device 1, a preheating state of the heater 18, an insertion / removal state of the stick S and / or the cartridge 19, a mounting / removal state of the upper case, and a use restriction state of the aerosol-generating device 1 (e.g., detection of an abnormal article), and the display 141 may output the information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED) device. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like.

[0176] The haptic unit 142 may convert an electrical signal into mechanical stimulation or electrical stimulation to haptically provide the information about the aerosol-generating device 1 to the user. For example, if initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 for a predetermined amount of time, the haptic unit 142 may generate vibration corresponding to completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0177] The sound output unit 143 may audibly provide information about the aerosol-generating device 1 to the user. For example, the sound output unit 143 may convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and may output the acoustic signal to the outside.

[0178] The power supply 11 may supply power used for operation of the aerosol-generating device 1. The power supply 11 may supply power so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is heated. In addition, the power supply 11 may supply power necessary for operation of the other components provided in the aerosol-generating device 1, such as the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0179] Although not shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol-generating device 1 may further include a power supply protection circuit. The power supply protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0180] The power supply protection circuit may block an electric path to the power supply 11 according to a predetermined condition. For example, the power supply protection circuit may block the electric path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharge. For example, the power supply protection circuit may block the electric path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarge.

[0181] The heater 18 may receive power from the power supply 11 to heat the medium or the aerosol-generating substance in the stick S. Although not shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol-generating device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., DC-to-DC converter) configured to convert the power of the power supply 11 and supply the converted power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. In addition, if the aerosol-generating device 1 generates an aerosol in an induction heating way, the aerosol-generating device 1 may further include a DC-to-AC converter configured to convert direct current power of the power supply 11 into alternating current power.

[0182] The controller 12, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 may perform functions using power received from the power supply 11. Although not shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol-generating device may further include a power conversion circuit configured to convert the power of the power supply 11 and supply the converted power to the respective components, for example, a low dropout (LDO) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit. In addition, although not shown in FIG. 13, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of a high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter may prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, for example, the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0183] In an embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, the suitable electrically resistive material may be a metal or a metal alloy including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, or nichrome. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. In addition, the heater 18 may be implemented as a metal wire, a metal plate on which an electrically conductive track is disposed, or a ceramic heating element. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0184] In another embodiment, the heater 18 may be an induction heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a susceptor configured to generate heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substance.

[0185] The input unit 15 may receive information input from the user or may output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor configured to detect touch. For example, the touch sensor may include a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0186] The display 141 and the touch panel may be implemented as an integrated panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted into the display 141 (on-cell type touch panel or in-cell type touch panel). For example, the touch panel may be added onto the display 141 (add-on type touch panel).

[0187] Meanwhile, the input unit 15 may include a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0188] The memory 17 may be hardware storing various pieces of data processed in the aerosol-generating device 1. The memory 17 may store data processed and to be processed by the controller 12. The memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type memory, a hard disk type memory, a multimedia card micro type memory, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disc. The memory 17 may store data on an operation time of the aerosol-generating device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0189] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit or a wireless communication unit.

[0190] The short-range communication unit may include a Bluetooth communication unit, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication unit, a near-field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) 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+ communication unit, etc. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0191] The wireless communication unit may include a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0192] Although not shown in FIG. 13, the aerosol-generating device 1 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, and may be connected to other external devices through the connection interface such as a USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0193] The controller 12 may control overall operation of the aerosol-generating device 1. In an embodiment, the controller 1 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program executable in the microprocessor is stored. Also, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the processor can be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0194] The controller 12 may control the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18 to control the temperature of the heater 18. The controller 12 may control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 detected by the temperature sensor 131. The controller 12 may control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the controller 12 may determine a target temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0195] The aerosol-generating device 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, the heater 18, or the induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element may be implemented as a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The controller 12 may control the power supply circuit.

[0196] The controller 12 may control switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit to control the supply of power. The power supply circuit may be an inverter configured to convert direct current power output from the power supply 11 into alternating current power. For example, the inverter may be composed of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0197] The controller 12 may turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The controller 12 may turn off the switching element so that the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is interrupted. The controller 12 may control the frequency and / or the duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element to control the current supplied from the power supply 11.

[0198] The controller 12 may control switching of the switching element of the power supply circuit to control the voltage output from the power supply 11. The power conversion circuit may convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck-converter configured to step down the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may be implemented as a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0199] The controller 12 may control on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to control the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. If the switching element is maintained in an on state, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the level of the voltage output from the power supply 11. The duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to a ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. As the duty ratio for the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may decrease. The heater 18 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0200] The controller 12 may control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme or a proportional-integral-differential (PID) scheme.

[0201] For example, the controller 12 may perform control using the PWM scheme such that a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and a predetermined duty ratio is supplied to the heater 18. The controller 12 may control the frequency and the duty ratio of the current pulse to control the power supplied to the heater 18.

[0202] For example, the controller 12 may determine, based on the temperature profile, a target temperature to be controlled. The controller 12 may control the power supplied to the heater 18 using the PID scheme, which is a feedback control scheme using a difference value between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference value with respect to time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference value with respect to time.

[0203] The controller 12 may prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 from overheating. For example, the controller 12 may control operation of the power conversion circuit such that the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is interrupted when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 exceeds a predetermined limit temperature. For example, the controller 12 may reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 by a predetermined ratio when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 exceeds a predetermined limit temperature. For example, when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature, the controller 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating substance contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted and may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24.

[0204] The controller 12 may control charging / discharging of the power supply 11. The controller 12 may check the temperature of the power supply 11 based on an output signal from the temperature sensor 131.

[0205] If a power line is connected to a battery terminal of the aerosol-generating device 1, the controller 12 may determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first limit temperature, which is a reference temperature at which charging of the power supply 11 is interrupted. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the first limit temperature, the controller 12 may perform control such that the power supply 11 is charged based on a predetermined charging current. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the controller 12 may interrupt charging of the power supply 11.

[0206] When the aerosol-generating device 1 is in an on state, the controller 12 may determine whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a second limit temperature, which is a reference temperature at which discharging of the power supply 11 is interrupted. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is lower than the second limit temperature, the controller 12 may perform control such that the power stored in the power supply 11 is used. When the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, the controller 12 may interrupt use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0207] The controller 12 may calculate or determine the remaining amount of power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the controller 12 may calculate or determine the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on a voltage and / or current detection value of the power supply 11.

[0208] The controller 12 may determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion detection sensor 133. The controller 12 may determine that the stick S has been inserted based on an output signal from the insertion detection sensor 133. Upon determining that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the controller 12 may perform control such that power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the controller 12 may supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0209] The controller 12 may determine whether the stick S is removed from the insertion space. For example, the controller 12 may determine whether the stick S is removed from the insertion space using the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, the controller 12 may determine that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than a limit temperature or when the temperature change slope of the heater 18 is equal to or greater than a predetermined slope. Upon determining that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, the controller 12 may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0210] The controller 12 may control a power supply time and / or the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 depending on the state of the stick S detected by the sensor 13. The controller 12 may check, based on a look-up table, a level range within which the level of a signal from the capacitance sensor is included. The controller 12 may determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0211] When the stick S is in a highly humid state, the controller 12 may control a time during which power is supplied to the heater 18 to increase a preheating time of the stick S compared to when the stick S is in a normal state.

[0212] The controller 12 may determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space is a reused stick using the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the controller 12 may compare a sensing value of a signal from the reuse detection sensor with a first reference range within which the first color is included, and may determine that the stick S is not a reused stick when the sensing value is within the first reference range. For example, the controller 12 may compare a sensing value of a signal from the reuse detection sensor with a second reference range within which the second color is included, and may determine that the stick S is a reused stick when the sensing value is within the second reference range. Upon determining that the stick S is a reused stick, the controller 12 may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0213] The controller 12 may determine whether the cartridge 19 is coupled and / or removed using the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the controller 12 may determine whether the cartridge 19 is coupled and / or removed based on a sensing value of a signal from the cartridge detection sensor.

[0214] The controller 12 may determine whether the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 is exhausted. For example, the controller 12 may apply power to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, and may determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature in a preheating section. When the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the controller 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. Upon determining that the aerosol-generating substance in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted, the controller 12 may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0215] The controller 12 may determine whether use of the cartridge 19 is possible. For example, upon determining, based on the data stored in the memory 17, that the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19, the controller 12 may determine that use of the cartridge 19 is impossible. For example, when a total time period during which the cartridge heater 24 is heated is equal to or longer than a predetermined maximum time period or when the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum amount of power, the controller 12 may determine that use of the cartridge 19 is impossible.

[0216] The controller 12 may make a determination as to a user puff using the puff sensor 132. For example, the controller 12 may determine, based on a sensing value of a signal from the puff sensor, whether a puff occurs. For example, the controller 12 may determine the intensity of a puff based on a sensing value of a signal from the puff sensor 132. When the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs or when no puff is detected for a predetermined time period or longer, the controller 12 may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0217] The controller 12 may determine whether the upper case is coupled and / or removed using the upper case detection sensor 136. For example, the controller 12 may determine, based on a sensing value of a signal from the upper case detection sensor, whether the upper case is coupled and / or removed.

[0218] The controller 12 may control the output unit 14 based on a result of detection by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 132 reaches a predetermined number, the controller 12 may notify the user that operation of the aerosol-generating device 1 will end soon through at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, or the sound output unit 143. For example, upon determining that the stick S is not present in the insertion space, the controller 12 may notify the user of the determination result through the output unit 14. For example, upon determining that the cartridge 19 and / or the upper case has not been mounted, the controller 12 may notify the user of the determination result through the output unit 14. For example, the controller 12 may transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user through the output unit 14.

[0219] Upon determining that a predetermined event has occurred, the controller 12 may store a history of the corresponding event in the memory 17 and may update the history. The event may include events performed in the aerosol-generating device 1, such as detection of insertion of the stick S, commencement of heating of the stick S, detection of puff, termination of puff, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, detection of application of overvoltage to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, termination of heating of the stick S, on / off operation of the aerosol-generating device 1, commencement of charging of the power supply 11, detection of overcharging of the power supply 11, and termination of charging of the power supply 11. The history of the event may include the occurrence date and time of the event and log data corresponding to the event. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on a value detected by the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, when the predetermined event is detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, and the current flowing through the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0220] The controller 12 may perform control for formation of a communication link with an external device such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving data on authentication from an external device via the communication link, the controller 12 may release restriction on use of at least one function of the aerosol-generating device 1. Here, the data on authentication may include data indicating completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user may perform user authentication through the external device. The external device may determine, based on the user's birthday or an identification number indicating the user, whether the user data is valid, and may receive data on the authority for use of the aerosol-generating device 1 from an external server. The external device may transmit data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol-generating device 1 based on the data on the use authority. When the user authentication is completed, the controller 12 may release restriction on use of at least one function of the aerosol-generating device 1. For example, when the user authentication is completed, the controller 12 may release restriction on use of a heating function for supplying power to the heater 18.

[0221] The controller 12 may transmit data on the state of the aerosol-generating device 1 to the external device through the communication link established with the external device. Based on the received state data, the external device may output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 or the operation mode of the aerosol-generating device 1 through a display of the external device.

[0222] The external device may transmit a location search request to the aerosol-generating device 1 based on an input for commencement of search for the location of the aerosol-generating device 1. Upon receiving the location search request from the external device, the controller 12 may perform control, based on the received location search request, such that at least one of the output devices performs operation corresponding to location search. For example, the haptic unit 142 may generate vibration in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 may output objects corresponding to location search and termination of search in response to the location search request.

[0223] Upon receiving firmware data from the external device, the controller 12 may perform control such that the firmware is updated. The external device may check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol-generating device 1 and may determine whether there is a new version of firmware. Upon receiving an input requesting firmware download, the external device may receive new version of firmware data and may transmit the new version of firmware data to the aerosol-generating device 1. Upon receiving the new version of firmware data, the controller 12 may perform control such that the firmware of the aerosol-generating device 1 is updated.

[0224] The controller 12 may transmit data on a value detected by the at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) through the communication unit 16, and may receive, from the server, and store a learning model generated by learning the detected value through machine learning such as deep learning. The controller 12 may perform operation of determining the user's puff pattern and operation of generating the temperature profile using the learning model received from the server. The controller 12 may store data on the value detected by the at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database for each of the components provided in the aerosol-generating device 1 and weights and biases constituting the structure of the artificial neural network (ANN) in order to train the artificial neural network (ANN). The controller 12 may learn data on the value detected by the at least one sensor 13, the user's puff pattern, and the temperature profile, which are stored in the memory 17, and may generate at least one learning model used to determine the user's puff pattern and to generate the temperature profile.

[0225] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of a cartridge, thereby being capable of preventing a high-temperature liquid from leaking out of the cartridge, and thus reducing a sense of heat felt by a user.

[0226] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a membrane having selective permeability is disposed on a flow path of the cartridge, thereby being capable of preventing a liquid from leaking out of the cartridge.

[0227] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a membrane is disposed on a flow path of a body, thereby being capable of reducing a problem in that liquid droplets generated by cooling an aerosol flowing in the body are inhaled by a user.

[0228] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, an additional flow path structure is provided in the cartridge, thereby being capable of compensating for an increase in inhalation resistance by a membrane.

[0229] Referring to FIGs. 1 to 13, an aerosol-generating device 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a body 10 providing an insertion space 434 with one side open, a cartridge 19 coupled to the body 10 and including a first container 31 storing a liquid therein, and a second container 32 disposed adjacent to the first container 31 and having a wick 25 configured to receive the liquid supplied from the first container 31 and a heater 24 configured to heat the wick 25 therein, a first flow path 51 communicating the insertion space 434 and an inside of the second container 32, and a second flow path 52 provided such that external air is introduced thereinto, and communicating with the first flow path 51 at one side of the first flow path 51, and a first membrane 54 having selective permeability may be disposed in the first flow path 51.

[0230] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first flow path 51 may be provided with a junction 53 at which the second flow path 52 joins the first flow path 52, and the first membrane 54 may be disposed between the junction 53 and the inside of the second container 52.

[0231] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first membrane 54 may allow an aerosol in a gaseous state to pass therethrough, and block a liquid.

[0232] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further include a second membrane 55 disposed in the second flow path 52, one end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with an outside of the cartridge 19 and the other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51 at the junction 53, and the second membrane 55 may be disposed between the one end and the other end of the second flow path 52.

[0233] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second membrane 55 may be disposed adjacent to the one end of the second flow path 52.

[0234] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further include a third membrane 56 disposed in the first flow path 51, and the third membrane 56 may be disposed downstream of the junction 53.

[0235] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first flow path 51 may include a connection path 433 formed in the body 10 and communicating with the inside of the second container 32 and the insertion space 434, and a discharge path 305 formed in the cartridge 19 and communicating with the inside of the second container 32 and the connection path 433.

[0236] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the third membrane 56 may be disposed in the connection path 433.

[0237] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the third membrane 56 is disposed adjacent to the insertion space 434.

[0238] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a width of the second flow path 52 may be narrower than a width of the first flow path 51.

[0239] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further include an inflow path 302 provided in the cartridge 19 and communicating with the inside of the second container 32 and an outside of the cartridge 19.

[0240] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the second container 32 may be disposed under the first container 31, the inflow path 302 may be provided with a first inlet 301 that is open upward at an upper end of the cartridge 19, and the inflow path 302 may extend in a vertical direction from the inside of the second container 32 to the first inlet 301.

[0241] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the inflow path 302 may include a first surface 3021 extending in the vertical direction, a second surface 3022 extending in the vertical direction and facing the first surface, and a plurality of protrusions 3023 protruding in a direction intersecting the vertical direction from the first surface 3021 and / or the second surface 3022.

[0242] In addition, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating device may further include a fourth membrane 57 disposed in the inflow path 302, and the fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to the first inlet 301.

[0243] Certain embodiments or other embodiments of the disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. Any or all elements of the embodiments of the disclosure described above may be used in combination with each other or combined with each other in configuration or function.

[0244] For example, a configuration "A" described in one embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings and a configuration "B" described in another embodiment of the disclosure and the drawings may be combined with each other. Namely, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except in the case where it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0245] The above detailed description should not be construed as being limiting in all respects but should be construed as being illustrative. The scope of the disclosure should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the accompanying claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a body providing an insertion space with one side open; a cartridge coupled to the body and comprising a first container storing a liquid therein, and a second container disposed adjacent to the first container and having a wick configured to receive the liquid supplied from the first container and a heater configured to heat the wick therein; a first flow path communicating the insertion space and an inside of the second container; and a second flow path provided such that external air is introduced thereinto, and communicating with the first flow path at one side of the first flow path, wherein a first membrane having selective permeability is disposed in the first flow path.

2. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein: the first flow path is provided with a junction at which the second flow path joins the first flow path; and the first membrane is disposed between the junction and the inside of the second container.

3. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, wherein the first membrane allows an aerosol in a gaseous state to pass therethrough, and blocks a liquid.

4. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, further comprising a second membrane disposed in the second flow path, wherein: one end of the second flow path communicates with an outside of the cartridge, and the other end of the second flow path communicates with the first flow path at the junction; and the second membrane is disposed between the one end and the other end of the second flow path.

5. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 4, wherein the second membrane is disposed adjacent to the one end of the second flow path.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 2, further comprising a third membrane disposed in the first flow path, wherein the third membrane is disposed downstream of the junction.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 6, wherein the first flow path comprises: a connection path formed in the body and communicates with the inside of the second container and the insertion space; and a discharge path formed in the cartridge and communicates with the inside of the second container and the connection path.

8. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, wherein the third membrane is disposed in the connection path.

9. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 8, wherein the third membrane is disposed adjacent to the insertion space.

10. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein a width of the second flow path is narrower than a width of the first flow path11. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, further comprising an inflow path provided in the cartridge and communicates with the inside of the second container and an outside of the cartridge12. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 11, wherein: the second container is disposed under the first container, the inflow path is provided with a first inlet that is open upward at an upper end of the cartridge, and the inflow path extends in a vertical direction from the inside of the second container to the first inlet.

13. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 12, wherein the inflow path comprises: a first surface extending in the vertical direction; a second surface extending in the vertical direction and facing the first surface; and a plurality of protrusions protruding in a direction intersecting the vertical direction from the first surface and / or the second surface.

14. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 12, further comprising a fourth membrane disposed in the inflow path, wherein the fourth membrane is disposed adjacent to the first inlet.

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