Aerosol generating device

Abstract

The aerosol generating device of the present disclosure includes a body, a heater module configured to be detachably coupled to the body and to form a first insertion space with one end open, a heater coupled to the heater module, a memory coupled to the heater module and storing information particularly related to the heater, and a control unit coupled to the body, receiving the information from the memory, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the information.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] An aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or a substance through an aerosol. The medium can contain substances with various components. The substances contained in the medium can be flavor substances with various components. For example, the substances contained in the medium can include a nicotine component, a herb component, and / or a coffee component, etc. In recent years, many studies have been conducted on such aerosol generating devices.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to accurately calculate the temperature of the heater.

[0005] Still another object of the present disclosure is to accurately control the heater and other components of the aerosol generating device.

[0006] Still another object of the present disclosure is to easily clean the heater module.

[0007] Still another object of the present disclosure is to easily replace the heater.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, it can include a body, a heater module configured to be detachably coupled to the body, configured to form a first insertion space and having one end open, a heater coupled to the heater module, a memory coupled to the heater module and storing information particularly related to the heater, and a control unit coupled to the body, receiving the information from the memory, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the information.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately calculated.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the heater and other components of the aerosol generating device can be accurately controlled.

[0011] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the heater module can be easily cleaned.

[0012] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the heater can be easily replaced.

[0013] The applicable additional scope of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be clearly understandable to those skilled in the art, so the detailed description and specific examples such as the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure should be understood as being provided only by way of illustration.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are given the same reference numerals even if they are shown in other drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0016] The suffixes "module" and "section" for the components used in the following description are used only for the ease of description in this specification. "Module" and "section" do not have meanings or roles that are distinguished from each other.

[0017] In addition, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. The accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0019] When referring to a component being "connected" to another component, it can be understood that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when referring to a component being "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that no other components exist in between.

[0020] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless otherwise indicated by the context.

[0021] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device can include at least one of a battery 101, a control unit 102, and a sensor 103. At least one of the battery 101, the control unit 102, and the sensor 103 can be housed inside the body 10 of the aerosol generating device. The body 10 can have a shape that extends longitudinally up and down. The control unit 102 and the sensor 103 can be mounted on a first substrate 104 disposed inside the body 10. The control unit 102 and the sensor 103 can be mounted together on one first substrate 104. Alternatively, the function of the sensor 103 can be incorporated into the control unit 102.

[0022] The battery 101 can supply power for the components of the aerosol generating device to operate. The battery 101 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 102, the sensor 103, the heater 25, and the memory 27. The battery 101 can supply the power necessary for the operation of various components such as an induction coil (not shown) installed in the aerosol generating device and a user interface.

[0023] The control unit 102 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device. The control unit 102 can control the operation of at least one of the battery 101, the sensor 103, the heater 25, and the memory 27. The control unit 102 can receive information from the sensor 103. The control unit 102 can control the operation of an induction coil (not shown) installed in the aerosol generating device, a user interface, etc. The control unit 102 can check the respective states of the components of the aerosol generating device and determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operable state.

[0024] The heater module 20 can be detachably coupled to the upper side of the body 10. For example, the heater module 20 can be coupled to the body 10 by magnetic force, or can also be coupled by a snap - fit method or a screw method. The heater module 20 can have a first insertion space 24 that is open at the upper side. The first insertion space 24 can have a long - extending cylindrical shape. The body 10 can have a second insertion space 14 into which the heater module 20 is detachably inserted. The second insertion space 14 is formed at the upper part of the body 10 and can be open at the upper side.

[0025] The heater module 20 can include a heater 25. The heater 25 can heat the first insertion space 24. For example, the heater 25 can have a shape that protrudes upward so as to be pointed from the bottom of the first insertion space 24 toward the opening of the first insertion space 24. As another example, the heater 25 can have a cylindrical shape surrounding the first insertion space 24.

[0026] The stick S can be inserted into a first insertion space 24 formed in the heater module 20. The stick S can have a long, extending cylindrical shape. The lower end of the stick S is inserted inside the first insertion space 24, and the upper end of the stick S can protrude outside the aerosol generating device from the first insertion space 24. When the stick S is inserted inside the first insertion space 24, the heater 25 can be inserted inside the stick S. The user can inhale air by holding the upper end of the stick S exposed outside in the mouth. The heater 25 can heat the stick S inserted in the first insertion space 24. When the heater 25 heats the stick S to a predetermined temperature, aerosol can be generated from the stick S.

[0027] The heater 25 can be a resistive heater. The heater 25 can include a variable resistance metal. The heater 25 can receive power from the battery 101 and generate heat. As another example, the heater 25 can generate eddy currents and generate heat by a magnetic field generated by an induction coil (not shown) surrounding the heater 25.

[0028] The heater 25 can have unique (specific) information. The unique information of the heater 25 is a parameter related to the unique characteristics of the heater 25 and can be a parameter for determining the voltage applied to the heater 25. For example, the unique information of the heater 25 can include parameters related to the unique characteristics of the heater 25 that affect the heating operation of the heater 25, such as the unique resistance value of the heater 25, the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR; Temperature Coefficient of Resistance, hereinafter referred to as TCR value), the impedance value of the heater 25, the capacitance value of the heater 25, and the like. The resistance value of the heater 25 can change with temperature. When the heater 25 generates heat and the temperature rises, the resistance value can increase. The unique resistance value and TCR value of the heater 25 can cause the resistance value to change at a specific temperature.

[0029] The sensor 103 can detect a value related to the temperature of the heater 25 or a value related to the resistance of the heater 25. For example, the sensor 103 can detect the voltage value applied to the heater 25. For example, the sensor 103 can detect the current value flowing through the heater 25.

[0030] The control unit 102 can receive the value detected by the sensor 103. The control unit 102 can estimate the temperature of the heater 25 based on the value received from the sensor 103. For example, since the resistance value of the heater 25 changes with temperature, the control unit 102 can calculate the resistance value of the heater 25 based on the current value received from the sensor 103 and determine the temperature of the heater 25. As another example, the control unit 102 can receive the temperature value of the heater 25 detected by the sensor 103 and determine the temperature of the heater 25.

[0031] The unique information of the heater 25 also changes depending on the identification of the material of the heater 25 itself. For example, it can also change slightly due to errors in the shape dimensions such as the length and thickness of the heating wire of the heater 25 that may occur during manufacturing. As another example, errors in the ratio of the components constituting the alloy of the heater 25 that may occur during manufacturing can also affect the unique information of the heater 25. This is only an example, and the factors affecting the unique information of the heater 25 are not limited to those described above. For this reason, a difference may occur between the estimated temperature of the heater 25 and the actual temperature of the heater 25, causing inaccurate control.

[0032] FIG. 3 is a graph showing the relationship between the resistance and temperature of heaters having different TCR values. For example, referring to FIG. 3, the first heater 25A and the second heater 25B made of the same material can have slightly different specific resistance values and TCR values due to the error in the alloy ratio generated during manufacturing. As another example, if foreign matter contacts the heating wire of the second heater 25B, the lead wire 259, the first substrate 104 on which the control unit 102 is mounted, etc., or due to internal and external noise, the TCR value of the second heater 25B can be determined as the TCR value of the third heater 25B'.

[0033] Therefore, the resistance value of the heater 25 at a specific temperature of the heater 25 can be different for the first heater 25A, the second heater 25B, and the third heater 25B'. Thus, an error can occur in the resistance value calculated by the control unit 102, and an error can occur in the temperature calculation of the heater 25.

[0034] To solve this, the heater module 20 can include a memory 27. The memory 27 can be mounted on the second substrate 26 installed inside the heater module 20. The second substrate 26 can be referred to as the second substrate 26. The memory 27 can store the specific information of the heater 25 included in the heater module 20.

[0035] For example, the memory 27 can store the specific resistance value or TCR value of the heater 25 included in the heater module 20. During the manufacture of the heater module 20, the accurate specific parameters of each manufactured heater 25 can be measured by an external measuring instrument and stored in the memory 27. Due to the reasons described above, each of the memories 27 included in each of the plurality of heater modules 20 can have different specific resistance values of the stored heater 25.

[0036] The control unit 102 can store information corresponding to a plurality of heater parameters. For example, the control unit 102 can store temperature (T)-resistance value (R) curve information for each heater parameter (see FIG. 3). For example, the control unit 102 can store information corresponding to a plurality of heater parameters in the form of a look-up table. The control unit 102 receives unique information about the heater 25 from the memory 27 included in the heater module 20, and can match the unique information about the heater 25 with any one of the plurality of stored heater parameters. For example, the control unit 102 can match the received unique information about the heater 25 with a specific heater parameter on the temperature (T)-resistance value (R) curve.

[0037] Referring also to FIG. 4, when the heater module 20 is coupled to the body 10, the heater 25 can be electrically connected to at least one of the battery 101, the control unit 102, and the sensor 103 (see the S1 stage in FIG. 4). When the heater module 20 is coupled to the body 10, the memory 27 can be electrically connected to at least one of the battery 101 and the control unit 102 (see the S1 stage in FIG. 4). When the heater module 20 is separated from the body 10, the heater 25 can be separated from the battery 101, the control unit 102, and the sensor 103. When the heater module 20 is separated from the body 10, the memory 27 can be separated from the battery 101 and the control unit 102.

[0038] The control unit 102 can receive unique information about the heater 25 from the memory 27 (see the S2 stage in FIG. 4). For example, the control unit 102 can receive the unique resistance value of the heater 25 from the memory 27. For example, the control unit 102 can receive the unique TCR value of the heater 25 from the memory 27. This is merely an example and is not limited to the foregoing. The control unit 102 can receive various unique information about the heater 25 for estimating the temperature of the heater 25.

[0039] Based on the unique information of the heater 25, the control unit 102 can calculate the temperature of the heater 25 (see step S3 in FIG. 4). For example, referring to FIG. 3, the control unit 102 receives the TCR value of the heater 25 corresponding to the first heater 25A from the memory 27, and receives the current value flowing through the heater 25 from the sensor 103, and can determine the current resistance value of the heater 25. Therefore, the current temperature of the heater 25 corresponding to the first heater 25A can be estimated.

[0040] Therefore, the control unit 102 can calculate the accurate temperature of the heater 25. By determining the accurate temperature of the heater 25, the control unit 102 can perform more precise control for various configurations (see step S4 in FIG. 4).

[0041] For example, the control unit 102 can control the temperature of the heater 25 based on the calculated temperature of the heater 25. The control unit 102 can control the voltage applied to the heater 25 to increase or decrease the heat generation temperature of the heater 25, thereby making the temperature of the heater 25 match the target temperature. As another example, the control unit 102 can determine whether the liquid stored in a cartridge (not shown) has been exhausted based on the current temperature of the heater 25. As another example, the control unit 102 can control the user interface to provide the user with information about the current temperature of the heater 25.

[0042] The memory 27 can store identification information for identifying whether the heater module 20 is a genuine product. When the heater module 20 is coupled to the body 10, the control unit 102 can receive the identification information stored in the memory 27 and determine whether the heater module 20 is a genuine product. For example, the control unit 102 can compare the stored information with the identification information to determine whether the heater module 20 is a genuine product. For example, the memory 27 can store the identification information about the heater module 20 in an encrypted code form, and the control unit 20 can decrypt it to determine whether it is a genuine product.

[0043] For example, when the heater module 20 is a counterfeit product, the control unit 102 restricts the power supply to the heater 25, and when the heater module 20 is a genuine product, the control unit 102 can supply power to the heater 25. The control unit 102 can control the user interface to provide the user with information about whether the heater module 20 is a genuine product.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the heater module 20 can include a first insertion space 24 that is open upward. The heater module 20 can include a heater 25. The heater 25 can be fixed to the heater module 20. The heater 25 can heat the first insertion space 24. The first insertion space 24 can have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically and is long.

[0045] The side wall 21 of the heater module 20 can surround the periphery of the side of the first insertion space 24. The side wall 21 of the heater module 20 can have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically and is long. The side wall 21 of the heater module 20 can be referred to as a pipe portion 21.

[0046] The heater module 20 can include a mount 22. The mount 22 can be formed at the lower end of the heater module 20. The mount 22 can close the lower end of the first insertion space 24. The mount 22 can be connected to the lower end of the pipe portion 21. The mount 22 can have a disk-shaped periphery.

[0047] The heater module 20 can include an extension portion 23. The extension portion 23 can extend outward from the upper end of the pipe portion 21. The extension portion 23 can cover at least a part of the upper end of the body 10 from the pipe portion 21. The extension portion 23 can be referred to as a rim portion 23.

[0048] The heater module 20 can include a heater rod 251. The heater rod 251 can be fixed to the mount 22 and project into the first insertion space 24. The heater 25 can be inserted into the interior of the heater rod 251. The heater rod 51 can have a hollow opening downward. The heater rod 251 can surround the heater 25. The heater rod 251 can have a cylindrical shape. The upper end of the heater rod 251 can be formed to be pointed upward. The heater rod 251 can have high thermal expansibility, excellent thermal insulation, and low thermal conductivity. The heater rod 251 can have high rigidity. For example, the heater rod 251 can be formed of zirconia. However, the material of the heater rod 51 is not limited to this. The heat generated from the heater 25 can be transmitted to the outside through the heater rod 251. When the stick S is inserted into the first insertion space 24, the heater rod 251 and the heater 25 can be disposed inside the stick S.

[0049] The lead wire 259 can extend from the heater 25 through the lower opening of the heater rod 251 to the outside of the heater rod 251. One end of the lead wire 259 is connected to the heater 25, and the other end of the lead wire 259 can be connected to the second substrate 26. The lead wire 259 can electrically connect the heater 25 and the second substrate 26. For example, the lead wire 259 can be connected to the heater 25 and the second substrate 26 by a welding process such as soldering or ultrasonic welding. The lead wire 259 can be electrically connected to the battery 101, the control unit 102, and the sensor 103 through the circuit pattern printed on the second substrate 26.

[0050] Therefore, the heater 25 can receive power through the lead wire 259 and generate heat. Also, the sensor 103 can detect a value related to the temperature of the heater 25 or a value related to the resistance of the heater 25 through the lead wire 259. The control unit 102 can receive the value detected by the sensor 103. Since this has been described above, the description is omitted.

[0051] The lower end of the heater rod 251 can be embedded inside the mount 22. The heater rod 251 can project upward from the mount 22 and extend long toward the first insertion space 24. The heater module 20 can be formed on the heater rod 251 by an insert injection molding method. Here, after inserting the heater rod 251 into the injection mold, a polymer resin can be injected to inject the heater module 20. With the heater 25 and the lead wire 259 disposed inside the heater rod 251, the polymer resin can be injected with the heater rod 251 inserted into the injection mold.

[0052] The body 10 can have a second insertion space 14 that opens upward. The inner wall 111 of the body 10 can surround the periphery of the side portion of the second insertion space 14. The inner wall 111 of the body 10 can have a cylindrical shape that extends vertically and long. The lower wall 12 of the body 10 can cover the bottom of the second insertion space 14. The lower wall 12 of the body 10 can be connected to the lower end of the inner wall 111 of the body 10. The upper wall 13 of the body 10 can extend outward from the upper end of the inner wall 111. The upper wall 13 of the body 10 can connect the upper end of the inner wall 111 and the upper end of the outer wall 112.

[0053] The pipe portion 21 and the mount 22 of the heater module 20 can be detachably inserted into the second insertion space 14. The pipe portion 21 of the heater module 20 can be surrounded by the inner wall 111 of the body 10. The mount 22 can cover the lower wall 12 of the body 10. The extension portion 23 of the heater module 20 can cover the upper wall 13 of the body 10. The user can grasp the extension portion 23 and separate the heater module 20 from the body 10. The user can separate the heater module 20 from the body 10 and can more easily clean the heater module 20. The heater module 20 is interchangeable.

[0054] The extension portion sealer 33 can seal between the heater module 20 and the body 10. The extension portion sealer 33 is disposed between the extension portion 23 and the upper wall 13 of the body 10 and can seal between the extension portion 23 and the upper wall 13 of the body 10. When the heater module 20 is coupled to the body 10, the extension portion 23 can press the extension portion sealer 33 toward the upper wall 13 of the body 10. The extension portion sealer 33 can prevent foreign matter from flowing into the second insertion space 14 through the gap between the body 10 and the heater module 20 from the outside. The extension portion sealer 33 can be formed of an elastic material. For example, the extension portion sealer 33 can be formed of a material such as rubber or silicon. The extension portion sealer 33 can be referred to as the external sealer 33.

[0055] Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign substances such as liquid from flowing into the second substrate 26 inside the mount 22.

[0056] The first terminal 18 can be coupled to the body 10. The first terminal 18 can be exposed in the second insertion space 14. For example, the first terminal 18 can project upward from the lower wall 12 of the body 10 toward the second insertion space 14. The first terminal 18 can be electrically connected to the first substrate 104 on which the control unit 102 is mounted. The first substrate 104 can be installed inside the body 10.

[0057] The heater module 20 can include a second substrate 26 on which a memory 27 (see FIG. 1) is mounted. The second substrate 26 can be installed inside the mount 22. The heater module 20 can include a second terminal 28 electrically connected to the second substrate 26. The second terminal 28 can be exposed outside the mount 22. For example, the second terminal 28 can be exposed downward. The second terminal 28 can be located within a terminal groove 2224 formed in the mount 22. The terminal groove 2224 can open to the lower side of the mount 22.

[0058] When the heater module 20 is coupled to the body 10, the second terminal 28 can contact the first terminal 18. The first terminal 18 can be inserted into the terminal groove 2224 to contact the second terminal 28. When the second terminal 28 and the first terminal 18 contact each other, the memory 27 and the control unit 102 can be electrically connected to each other. When the second terminal 28 and the first terminal 18 contact each other, the memory 27 and the battery 101 can be electrically connected to each other. When the second terminal 28 and the first terminal 18 contact each other, the heater 25 and the control unit 102 can be electrically connected to each other. When the second terminal 28 and the first terminal 18 contact each other, the heater 25 and the sensor 103 can be electrically connected to each other. When the second terminal 28 and the first terminal 18 contact each other, the heater 25 and the battery 101 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0059] The second terminal 28 can have a shape that is recessed upward and has an inverted U shape. The second terminal 28 can have a shape that is open downward. The side portions of the second terminal 28 can extend downward from both side ends of the second terminal 28. The side portions of the second terminal 28 can have elasticity so as to pivot in and out from the second substrate 26. The side portions of the second terminal 28 can have a shape that protrudes inward. Thus, the first terminal 18 can be pushed into the inside of the second terminal 28.

[0060] Thus, the heater module 20 can be positioned in alignment with or fixed to the body 10. Also, the heater module 20 can be detached from the body 10 only when a force equal to or greater than a certain load is applied. Thus, when the user uses the aerosol generating device, it is possible to prevent the heater module 20 from shaking with respect to the body 10 and improve structural safety. Also, it is possible to prevent foreign substances such as liquid from coming into contact with the second terminal 28 of the heater module 20.

[0061] The first terminal 18 and the second terminal 28 can electrically connect the memory 27 and the control unit 102. The first terminal 18 and the second terminal 28 can electrically connect the heater 25 and the battery 101. The first terminal 18 and the second terminal 28 can electrically connect the heater 25 and the sensor 103.

[0062] The first terminal 18 can include a first memory terminal 181. The first memory terminal 181 can be formed in a pair. The first memory terminal 181 is installed on the first substrate 104 on which the control unit 102 is mounted and can be connected to the control unit 102. The second terminal 28 can include a second memory terminal 281. The second memory terminal 281 can be formed in a pair. The second memory terminal 282 is installed on the second substrate 26 on which the memory 27 is mounted and can be connected to the memory 27 (see FIG. 11). The first memory terminal 181 and the second memory terminal 281 can be in contact with each other and electrically connected. Therefore, the memory 27 and the control unit 102 are electrically connected, and the control unit 102 can receive the unique information of the heater 25 from the memory 27.

[0063] The first terminal 18 can include a first heater terminal 182. The first heater terminal 182 can be formed in a pair. The first heater terminal 182 can be connected to the battery 101 side. The first heater terminal 182 is installed on the first substrate 104 and can be connected to the power supply circuit pattern mounted on the first substrate 104. The second terminal 28 can include a second heater terminal 282. The second heater terminal 282 can be formed in a pair. The second heater terminal 282 can be connected to the heater 25 and the lead wire 259 side. The second heater terminal 282 is installed on the second substrate 26 and can be connected to the power supply circuit pattern mounted on the second substrate 26. The first heater terminal 182 and the second heater terminal 282 can be in contact with each other and electrically connected. Therefore, the heater 25 can receive power from the battery 101 and generate heat.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 in addition to FIG. 6, the first terminal 18 and the second terminal 28 can have various shapes. The first terminal 18 can protrude upward from the lower wall 12 of the body 10 toward the first insertion space 14. The second terminal 28 can be open downward. The first terminal 18 can be detachably inserted into and contact the second terminal 28. The first terminal 18 can be pushed into the second terminal 28.

[0065] As an example, the first terminal 18 can include a first terminal head 18a, a first terminal recess 18b, and a first terminal body 18c. The first terminal head 18a can be formed at the upper end of the first terminal 18. The first terminal head 18a can bulge outward or have a round shape. The first terminal recess 18b can be formed between the first terminal head 18a and the first terminal body 18c. The first terminal recess 18b can be recessed in a concave shape in the radially inner direction from the first terminal head 18a and the first terminal body 18c. The first terminal body 18c can extend downward from the first terminal recess 18b for a long distance. The first terminal body 18c can have a cylindrical shape. The first terminal body 18c can be fixed to the lower wall 12 of the body 10.

[0066] As an example, the second terminal 28 can include a second terminal body 28a and a second terminal wing 28b. The second terminal body 28a can be recessed in a concave shape upward or have a round shape. The second terminal body 28a can have a curvature corresponding to the first terminal head 18a.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 7, a plurality of second terminal wings 28b can be formed. The plurality of second terminal wings 28b can be spaced apart from each other and extend downward from the end of the second terminal body 28a. A pair of second terminal wings 28b can extend downward from both ends of the second terminal body 28a. The pair of second terminal wings 28b can be positioned opposite to each other with respect to the terminal insertion portion 28d. As another example, referring to FIG. 8, the second terminal wing 28b can extend downward along the periphery of the second terminal body 28a, or at least one side can be cut out long in the vertical direction. The second terminal wing 28b can surround the periphery of the terminal insertion portion 28d.

[0068] The terminal insertion portion 28d can be defined by the second terminal body 28a and the second terminal wing 28b. The terminal insertion portion 28d can be open downward. The second terminal wing 28b can be formed to bulge inward toward the terminal insertion portion 28d. The second terminal wing 28b can have a curvature corresponding to the second terminal recess 18b. The lower portion of the second terminal wing 28b can have a shape that spreads outward.

[0069] The first terminal 18 can be inserted into the terminal insertion portion 28d. The second terminal wing 28b can be tilted inward and outward about the second terminal body 28a. When the first terminal 18 is inserted into the terminal insertion portion 28d, the first terminal head 18a can contact the inner surface of the lower portion of the second terminal wing 28b. The first terminal head 18a can push the second terminal wing 28b and spread it outward. Then, the first terminal head 18a is inserted into the terminal insertion portion 28d and can be surrounded by the second terminal body 28a. The second terminal wing 28b can tilt inward about the second terminal body 28a, restore to its original position, and be inserted into and engaged with the first terminal recess 18b. When the first terminal 18 is detached from the terminal insertion portion 28d, the first terminal head 18a can push the second terminal wing 28b and spread it outward while detaching from the terminal insertion portion 28d. The second terminal wing 28d can tilt outward only when receiving an action of a force equal to or greater than a predetermined force from the first terminal 18.

[0070] Therefore, the first terminal 18 can be pushed into the second terminal 28 and stably coupled to the second terminal 28.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the mount 22 can include a first mount 221 and a second mount 222. The first mount 221 can be connected to the lower end of the pipe portion 21. The first mount 221 can be integrally formed with the pipe portion 21. The first mount 221 can have a disk shape. The first mount 221 can close the lower portion of the first insertion space 24.

[0072] The first mount 221 can be formed by insert injection molding at the lower end of the heater rod 251. The outer peripheral surface of the lower end of the heater rod 251 can include a flange portion 253 having a shape protruding in the radially outer direction. The first mount 221 can surround the flange portion 253. The flange portion 253 can be fixed to the first mount 221. The flange portion 253 can be supported vertically by the first mount 221. The flange portion 253 can prevent the heater rod 251 from vertically separating from the first mount 221. The flange portion 253 has a non-circular cross section and can mesh with the first mount 221 in the circumferential direction. The flange portion 253 can prevent the heater rod 251 from rotating in the circumferential direction with respect to the heater module 20. The center portion of the first mount 221 to which the flange portion 253 is coupled can protrude downward. The lead wire 259 can pass through an opening formed at the center of the first mount 221 from the inside of the heater rod 251 and can be connected to a second substrate 26 disposed below the first mount 221.

[0073] The second mount 222 can be coupled to the lower side of the first mount 221. The second mount 222 can cover the lower portion of the first mount 221. The second mount 222 can include a bottom portion 2221 and a peripheral portion 2222. The peripheral portion 2222 can extend upward from around the bottom portion 2221. The peripheral portion 2222 can have a ring shape extending in the circumferential direction. The periphery of the peripheral portion 2222 can correspond vertically to the periphery of the pipe portion 21.

[0074] The second mount 222 and the first mount 221 can be coupled in a snap-fit manner. For example, the second mount 222 can include a coupling hook 2227, and the first mount 221 can include a coupling groove 2217 to which the coupling hook 2227 is fastened. The coupling hook 2227 can be formed on the peripheral portion 2222 of the second mount 222. The coupling groove 2217 can be formed adjacent to the periphery of the first mount 221. A pair of the coupling hook 2227 and the coupling groove 2217 can be provided on both sides of the mount 222 at corresponding positions. As another example, the coupling hook 2227 can be formed on the first mount 221, and the coupling groove 2217 can be formed on the second mount 222.

[0075] The second substrate 26 can be disposed inside the mount 22. The second substrate 26 can be disposed between the first mount 221 and the second mount 222. The second substrate 26 can be surrounded by the first mount 221 and the second mount 222.

[0076] The second mount 222 can include a terminal groove 2224. The terminal groove 2224 can open to the lower side of the second mount 222. A plurality of the terminal grooves 2224 can be provided corresponding to the number of the second terminals 28. For example, the second terminals 28 can include a pair of memory terminals 281 and a pair of heater terminals 282, and the number of the terminal grooves 2224 can be four. The second terminals 28 can be exposed to the outside of the mount 22 through the terminal grooves 2224. The plurality of the second terminals 28 and the plurality of the terminal grooves 2224 can be arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction (see FIG. 9). The second substrate 26 can cover the terminal grooves 2224.

[0077] The first mount seal 31 can seal between the first mount 221 and the second mount 222. For example, the first mount seal 31 can seal between the periphery of the second mount 222 and the periphery of the first mount 221. The first mount seal 31 can have a ring shape extending in the circumferential direction along the periphery of the mount 22. The first mount seal 31 can be disposed above the peripheral portion 2222 of the second mount 222. The first mount seal 31 can be formed of an elastic material. For example, the first mount seal 31 can be formed of a material such as rubber or silicon. When the first mount 221 and the second mount 222 are coupled, the second mount 222 can press the first mount seal 31 toward the first mount 221.

[0078] For example, the second mount seal 32 can seal between the terminal groove 2224 and the second terminal 28. For example, the second mount seal 32 can seal between the terminal groove 2224 and the second substrate 26. The second mount seal 32 can seal the gap around the second terminal 28. The second mount seal 32 can have a shape corresponding to the periphery of the terminal groove 2224. For example, the second mount seal 32 can have a ring shape. One surface of the second mount seal 32 can contact the second substrate 26, and the other surface of the second mount seal 32 can contact the second mount 222 around the terminal groove 2224. The second mount seal 32 can be formed of an elastic material. For example, the second mount seal 32 can be formed of a material such as rubber or silicon.

[0079] Therefore, since the second substrate 26 is disposed inside the mount 22, the second substrate 26 and the lead wire 259 can be protected from external impacts. Also, the inflow of foreign substances such as liquid into the inside of the mount 22 can be prevented. Further, malfunctions or sensing noises due to contact of foreign substances with the lead wire 259 and the second substrate 26 can be prevented.

[0080] In addition, the user can easily clean the heater module 20 by separating the heater module 20 from the body 10. Further, since the inflow of liquid into the heater module 20 is prevented, the user can clean the heater module 20 with water.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the second substrate 26 can have a disk shape or a disc shape. A hole 264 can be formed at the center of the second substrate 26. The central portion of the first mount 221 can pass through the hole 264 of the second substrate 26. The second substrate 26 can surround the central portion of the first mount 221. The second terminal 28 can be coupled to the second substrate 26. The second terminal 28 can include a pair of memory terminals 281 and a pair of heater terminals 282. The memory terminal 281 can be electrically connected to the memory 27 mounted on the second substrate 26. The memory terminal 281 can contact the first terminal 18 coupled to the control unit 102. The lead wire 259 extending from the heater 25 can be coupled to the second substrate 26. The lead wire 259 can be soldered to the second substrate 26. The heater terminal 282 can be electrically connected to the lead wire 259 coupled to the second substrate 26. The heater terminal 282 can contact the first terminal 18 coupled to the battery 101. A circuit for electrically connecting the second terminal 28 and various components can be printed on the second substrate 26.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 18, an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can include a body, a heater module configured to be detachably coupled to the body and configured to form a first insertion space with one end open, a heater coupled to the heater module, a memory coupled to the heater module and storing information particularly related to the heater, and a control unit coupled to the body, receiving the information from the memory, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the information.

[0083] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a sensor that detects information related to the temperature of the heater. The control unit can calculate the temperature of the heater based on the information received from the memory and the information related to the temperature of the heater received from the sensor, and control the temperature of the heater based on the calculated temperature of the heater.

[0084] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heater module may include a pipe portion that forms a side portion of the first insertion space, and a mount that forms a part of the other end of the first insertion space. The memory may be located inside the mount.

[0085] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the mount includes a first portion coupled to the lower end of the pipe portion, and a second portion coupled to the lower side of the first portion. The memory may be disposed between the first portion and the second portion.

[0086] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device may further include a first sealer that seals a gap between the periphery of the first portion and the periphery of the second portion.

[0087] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the mount may include a coupling groove formed in either one of the first portion and the second portion, and a coupling hook provided in the other of the first portion and the second portion and positioned to be coupled to the coupling groove.

[0088] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device includes a plurality of first terminals attached to the heater module, a first terminal element coupled to the memory and the heater, a plurality of second terminals attached to the body and coupled to the control unit, and a second terminal element that contacts the first terminal element and electrically connects between the control unit and the memory and between the control unit and the heater.

[0089] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the mount can form a terminal groove that is located below the mount and sized to accommodate the first terminal element therein.

[0090] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the first terminal element is configured to form a recess, the second terminal element protrudes upward from the body, and can be pushed into the first terminal through the terminal groove.

[0091] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can further include a second mount sealer that seals a gap between the terminal groove and the first terminal element.

[0092] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the body can form a second insertion space that opens on one side and is sized to be detachably coupled to the heater module.

[0093] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device can further include an external sealer that seals an interface between the body and the heater module.

[0094] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the heater module can include a rim portion that extends in a horizontal outer direction from one end of the pipe portion and overlaps with one end of the body. The external sealer can seal a gap between the rim portion and one end of the body.

[0095] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, information particularly related to the heater can include parameters related to the inherent characteristics of the heater that affect the operation of the heater.

[0096] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable from each other. Specific elements or all elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined in configuration or function with other elements or with each other.

[0097] For example, the A configuration described in one embodiment of the present disclosure and the drawings and the B configuration described in other embodiments of the present disclosure and the drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if the combination between the configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible except when it is described that the combination is impossible.

[0098] Although the embodiments have been described above with numerous exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art in the technical field belonging to the scope of the principles of the present disclosure should understand that many other variations and embodiments are possible. More specifically, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the target combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other uses will also become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A body, a heater module configured to be detachably coupled to the body, configured to form a first insertion space, and having one end open; a heater coupled to the heater module; a memory coupled to the heater module and storing information particularly related to the heater; and a control unit coupled to the body, receiving the information from the memory, and controlling the operation of the heater based on the information. An aerosol generating device comprising the above components.

2. Further comprising a sensor for detecting information related to the temperature of the heater, wherein the control unit calculates the temperature of the heater based on the information received from the memory and the information related to the temperature of the heater received from the sensor, and controls the temperature of the heater based on the calculated temperature of the heater. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 1.

3. The heater module includes a pipe portion forming a side portion of the first insertion space, and a mount forming a part of the other end of the first insertion space. The memory is located inside the mount. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 1.

4. The mount includes a first portion coupled to the lower end of the pipe portion, and a second portion coupled to the lower side of the first portion. The memory is disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 3.

5. Further comprising a first sealer for sealing a gap between the periphery of the first portion and the periphery of the second portion. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 4.

6. The mount includes a coupling groove formed in either one of the first portion and the second portion, and a coupling hook provided in the other of the first portion and the second portion and positioned to be coupled to the coupling groove. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 4.

7. Including a plurality of first terminals attached to the heater module, a first terminal element coupled to the memory and the heater, and a second terminal element attached to the body and including a plurality of second terminals coupled to the control unit. The second terminal element contacts the first terminal element to electrically connect between the control unit and the memory and between the control unit and the heater. The aerosol generating device according to Claim 3.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the mount forms a terminal groove located below the mount and sized to accommodate the first terminal element therein.

9. The first terminal element is configured to form a recessed portion. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the second terminal element projects upward from the body and is pushed into the first terminal through the terminal groove.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, further comprising a second mount seal for sealing a gap between the terminal groove and the first terminal element.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein the body forms a second insertion space that opens on one side and is sized to be detachably coupled to the heater module.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, further comprising an external seal for sealing an interface between the body and the heater module.

13. The heater module includes a rim portion that extends in a horizontal outward direction from one end of the pipe portion and overlaps with one end of the body. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the external seal seals a gap between the rim portion and one end of the body.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein information particularly related to the heater includes parameters related to the inherent characteristics of the heater that affect the operation of the heater.

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