HEATER ASSEMBLY FOR AEROSOL GENERATION DEVICE AND AEROSOL GENERATION DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME

Abstract

A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body forming a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a first cover coupled to the body and having an item insertion portion into which the aerosol product is inserted, a support unit arranged inside the body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol product stored in the storage space, and a heater arranged between the inner and outer surfaces of the support unit and applying a magnetic field to a susceptor arranged in the storage space to heat the aerosol product, wherein the heater is arranged so as to completely overlap the support unit based on a second direction that intersects the first direction in which the support unit extends.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device that is miniaturized and has improved heating efficiency, and to an aerosol generating device including the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for technologies to replace the method of supplying aerosols by burning a conventional cigarette. For example, research is being conducted into methods of supplying flavored aerosols by generating aerosols from liquid or solid aerosol-generating substances, or by generating vapor from a liquid aerosol-generating substance and then passing the generated vapor through a solid flavor carrier.

[0003] An example of an aerosol generating device is an induction heating type aerosol generating device that generates a magnetic field to heat a susceptor, thereby heating the aerosol generating material. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The induction heating type aerosol generating device includes a heater that generates a magnetic field to heat a susceptor, and a bobbin that supports the heater.

[0005] Generally, the heater is wound around the outer surface of the bobbin. That is, a space for winding the heater must be secured outside the bobbin in advance, and therefore, other components of the aerosol generating device (e.g., a thermal insulating material) cannot be disposed outside the bobbin. As a result, because of the area where the heater is disposed outside the bobbin, additional space must be secured for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device, which increases the overall size of the aerosol generating device.

[0006] Furthermore, when the susceptor is placed inside the bobbin, the heater is wound around the outside of the bobbin, which increases the distance between the heater and the susceptor, resulting in the susceptor being placed farther away from the magnetic field created by the heater, which reduces the heating efficiency of the susceptor.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating device that can be made smaller by reducing the area occupied by the heater within the aerosol generating device.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a heater assembly for an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating apparatus that can improve the heating efficiency of the susceptor by reducing the distance between the heater and the susceptor.

[0009] The problems to be solved through the embodiments are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the attached drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device includes a body forming a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insertion portion into which the aerosol product is inserted, a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover to surround the aerosol product stored in the storage space, and a heater disposed between an inner surface and an outer surface of the support unit to apply a magnetic field to a susceptor disposed in the storage space to heat the aerosol product, The heater is disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit in a second direction intersecting a first direction in which the support unit extends.

[0011] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body forming a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a first cover coupled to the body and having an item insertion portion into which the aerosol product is inserted, a support unit arranged inside the body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol product stored in the storage space, and a heater protruding from the inner surface of the support unit toward the storage space and applying a magnetic field to a susceptor arranged in the storage space to heat the aerosol product.

[0012] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, a battery that provides power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, and a controller that controls the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating device according to various embodiments of the present invention can be miniaturized and improve the heating efficiency of a susceptor.

[0014] The effects of the technical idea of ​​the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment and an aerosol product inserted therein. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 5]3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain an example of heater arrangement. FIG. [Figure 6] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain another example of heater arrangement. FIG. [Figure 7] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain an example of the heater structure. FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain an example of a heating method of the heater. [Figure 9] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain another example of a heating method of the heater. FIG. [Figure 10] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the line BB' in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 11] 1 is a perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, showing a holder, a first cover, a support unit, and a heater assembled together. FIG. [Figure 12] This is an oblique view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, showing the support unit, heater, antenna, and sensing unit combined together. [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, showing a first cover and an antenna combined together. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a combined perspective view of an antenna, a sensing unit, and a shielding unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a perspective view of the second cover, the support unit, the heater, the antenna, the sensing unit, and the seal unit, illustrating how the seal unit is coupled to the second cover; FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a second cover and a sealing portion in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] 17 is a view showing the second cover of FIG. 16. [Figure 18A] 17 is a view showing the first seal member of FIG. 16. [Figure 18B] 17 is a view showing the second seal member of FIG. 16. [Figure 19] 16 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the CC' cross-sectional line in FIG. 15. FIG. [Figure 20] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol product according to one embodiment. [Figure 21] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an aerosol product according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] According to one embodiment, a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device includes a body forming a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insertion portion into which the aerosol product is inserted, a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover to surround the aerosol product stored in the storage space, and a heater disposed between an inner surface and an outer surface of the support unit to apply a magnetic field to a susceptor disposed in the storage space to heat the aerosol product, The heater is disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit in a second direction intersecting a first direction in which the support unit extends.

[0017] The support unit and the heater are formed by insert injection.

[0018] The heater has a cross-sectional area extending in the first direction when cut with respect to a plane passing through the first direction in which the support unit extends and the second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0019] The frequency of the magnetic field applied to the susceptor is also 5 MHz or higher.

[0020] The spacing between adjacent portions of the heater located on a first side of the support unit is different from the spacing between adjacent portions of the heater located on a second side of the support unit.

[0021] The heater includes a first heater and a second heater disposed at different portions of the support unit.

[0022] The heater assembly for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes a sensing unit supported by the support unit inside the body and configured to sense the temperature of at least one of the support unit and the heater.

[0023] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes a sensing connection unit having a metal material and disposed at a portion where the support unit and the sensing unit are connected.

[0024] The first cover further includes a cover insulating member extending along the extension direction of the heater and disposed between the heater and the body.

[0025] When the first cover is coupled to the body, the cover heat insulating member may be inserted inside the body to surround a portion of the outer surface of the heater.

[0026] In one embodiment, the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device further includes an antenna arranged inside the body so as to surround at least a portion of the exterior of the heater, and configured to recognize whether the aerosol product is contained in the containment space.

[0027] The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment further includes a shielding unit disposed between the antenna and the body so as to surround at least a portion of the outside of the antenna.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device further includes a second cover coupled to the body to form the accommodating space together with the body and the first cover, and a sealing portion inserted into a passage hole formed in the second cover to seal the passage hole.

[0029] A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body forming a storage space for storing an aerosol product, a first cover coupled to the body and having an item insertion portion into which the aerosol product is inserted, a support unit arranged inside the body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol product stored in the storage space, and a heater protruding from the inner surface of the support unit toward the storage space and applying a magnetic field to a susceptor arranged in the storage space to heat the aerosol product.

[0030] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, a battery that provides power to the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device, and a controller that controls the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

[0031] The terms used in the embodiments are generally used in the present invention, taking into consideration their functions in the present invention. However, these terms may change depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, legal precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the present invention, rather than simply by their names.

[0032] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a certain element, this does not mean that it excludes other elements and may further include other elements, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, terms such as "module" and "unit" used in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0033] As used herein, when a phrase such as "at least one of," precedes an element in an arrangement, it modifies the entire element and not each individual element in the arrangement. For example, the phrase "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted as including a, b, and c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0034] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol by electrically heating a cigarette contained in an internal space.

[0035] The aerosol generating device comprises a heater, in one embodiment the heater is an electrically resistive heater, for example the heater comprises a conductive track, and when an electric current is passed through the conductive track the heater is heated.

[0036] The heater may include a tube-type heating element, a plate-type heating element, a needle-type heating element, or a rod-type heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the cigarette depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0037] Cigarettes include tobacco rods and filter rods. Tobacco rods can be made in sheet or strand form, or can be made from shredded tobacco, which is a tobacco sheet. The tobacco rod can also be surrounded by a thermally conductive material, such as, but not limited to, a metal foil, such as aluminum foil.

[0038] The filter rod may also be a cellulose acetate filter. The filter rod may be composed of at least one or more segments. For example, the filter rod may have a first segment that cools the aerosol and a second segment that filters out certain components contained in the aerosol.

[0039] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol using a cartridge containing an aerosol generating substance.

[0040] The aerosol generating device includes a cartridge containing an aerosol-generating substance and a body supporting the cartridge. The cartridge is detachably connected to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be formed integrally with the body, incorporated therein, or fixed so as not to be detachable by a user. The cartridge is attached to the body with the aerosol-generating substance contained therein. However, is not limited thereto, and the aerosol-generating substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is connected to the body.

[0041] The cartridge contains an aerosol-forming material in any one of a variety of states, such as a liquid, solid, gas, or gel. The aerosol-forming material includes a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0042] The cartridge is activated by an electrical signal or a wireless signal transmitted from the main body to convert the phase of the aerosol-generating material inside the cartridge into a gas phase, thereby generating an aerosol. The aerosol refers to a gas mixture of vaporized particles generated from the aerosol-generating material and air.

[0043] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device heats a liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user through the cigarette, i.e., the aerosol generated from the liquid composition travels along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device, the airflow passage being configured to deliver the aerosol through the cigarette to the user.

[0044] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be a device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating material using an ultrasonic vibration method, which refers to a method of generating an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol generating material using ultrasonic vibrations generated by a vibrator.

[0045] The aerosol generating device includes a vibrator that generates short-period vibrations to atomize the aerosol generating material. The vibrations generated by the vibrator are ultrasonic vibrations, and the frequency band of the ultrasonic vibrations is, but is not limited to, about 100 kHz to about 3.5 MHz.

[0046] The aerosol generating device further includes a wick that absorbs the aerosol-generating substance, for example, the wick is positioned to surround or contact at least a region of the vibrator.

[0047] When a voltage (e.g., an AC voltage) is applied to the vibrator, heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations are generated from the vibrator, and the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations generated from the vibrator are transferred to the aerosol-forming substance absorbed in the wick. The aerosol-forming substance absorbed in the wick is converted into a gas phase by the heat and / or ultrasonic vibrations transferred from the vibrator, resulting in the generation of an aerosol.

[0048] For example, the heat generated from the vibrator reduces the viscosity of the aerosol-generating substance absorbed in the core, and the ultrasonic vibrations generated from the vibrator break the reduced viscosity aerosol-generating substance into fine particles, thereby generating an aerosol, but this is not limiting.

[0049] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol product contained in the aerosol generating device using an induction heating method.

[0050] The aerosol generating device includes a susceptor and a coil. In one embodiment, the coil applies a magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied from the aerosol generating device to the coil, a magnetic field is formed inside the coil. In one embodiment, the susceptor is a magnetic material that generates heat when an external magnetic field is applied. When the susceptor is located inside the coil and a magnetic field is applied, the susceptor generates heat, thereby heating the aerosol product. Alternatively, the susceptor may be located inside the aerosol product.

[0051] In yet another embodiment, the aerosol generating device further comprises a cradle.

[0052] The aerosol generating device may be combined with a separate cradle to form a system. For example, the cradle may charge a battery of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the heater may heat the aerosol generating device when the cradle and the aerosol generating device are combined.

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in a form that can be implemented in the aerosol generating device of the various embodiments described above, or may be embodied in various different forms, but is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0054] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0055] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment and an aerosol product inserted therein.

[0056] 1, an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment includes a heater assembly 10, a battery 20, a control unit 30, and a vaporizer 40. However, the components of the aerosol generating device 1 are not limited thereto, and depending on the embodiment, at least one of the above-mentioned components (e.g., the vaporizer 40) may be omitted or another component may be added.

[0057] The aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment can generate aerosol by using an induction heating method to heat an aerosol product 2 accommodated in the aerosol generating device 1. The induction heating method refers to a method of applying an alternating magnetic field, which periodically changes direction, to a magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field, thereby causing the magnetic material to heat up.

[0058] When an alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic body, energy loss occurs in the magnetic body due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss, and the lost energy can be released from the magnetic body as thermal energy. The greater the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field applied to the magnetic body, the greater the thermal energy that can be released from the magnetic body. The aerosol generation device 1 according to one embodiment can release thermal energy from the magnetic body by applying an alternating magnetic field to the magnetic body, and can transfer the thermal energy released from the magnetic body to an aerosol product.

[0059] The magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field is also a susceptor. The susceptor is provided in the aerosol generating device 1 in the form of a fragment, flake, strip, or the like.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the susceptor is disposed inside the heater assembly 10 and is disposed so as to surround the aerosol product 2 contained in the containing space. In this case, the susceptor is generally formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder, but the shape is not limited thereto.

[0061] According to another embodiment, the susceptor may be arranged inside the aerosol product item 2 contained in the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0062] At least a portion of the susceptor may be formed of a ferromagnetic substance. For example, the susceptor may include a metal or carbon. The susceptor may include at least one of ferrite, a ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). The susceptor may also include at least one of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, a nickel alloy, a metal film, a ceramic such as zirconia, a transition metal such as nickel (Ni) or cobalt (Co), or a metalloid such as boron (B) or phosphorus (P).

[0063] The aerosol generation device 1 according to one embodiment accommodates a housing 2 into which an aerosol product 2 is inserted. The aerosol generation device 1 according to one embodiment has a space for accommodating the aerosol product 2. Here, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generation device according to one embodiment is disposed in the space of the aerosol generation device 1 for accommodating the aerosol product 2. For example, the heater assembly 10 includes a cylindrical accommodating space therein for accommodating the aerosol product 2. Therefore, when the aerosol product 2 is accommodated in the aerosol generation device 1, the aerosol product 2 can be accommodated in the accommodating space of the heater assembly 10. A detailed description of the aerosol product 2 accommodated in the aerosol generation device 1 according to one embodiment will be given later.

[0064] The aerosol generation device 1 according to one embodiment may have components arranged therein for operating the aerosol generation device 1. For example, a heater assembly 10, a battery 20, and a control unit 30 are arranged therein. However, the heater assembly 10, the battery 20, and the control unit 30 are merely examples of components arranged therein, and other components (e.g., a user interface, a sensor, etc.) in addition to the above-mentioned components may also be arranged therein.

[0065] The heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may surround at least a portion of the aerosol product 2 contained in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment surrounds the tobacco medium contained in the aerosol product 2. This allows for more efficient transfer of heat from the heater assembly 10 to the tobacco medium.

[0066] The heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment heats the aerosol product 2 housed in the aerosol generating device 1. As described above, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can heat the aerosol product 2 by induction heating. According to one embodiment, the heater assembly 10 applies an alternating magnetic field to a susceptor included in the aerosol product 2, causing the susceptor to generate heat.

[0067] The battery 20 supplies power to the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the battery 20 supplies power to the coil of the heater assembly 10. As another example, the battery 20 may also supply power necessary for the operation of other components of the aerosol generation device 1 (e.g., the control unit 30, etc.).

[0068] The battery 20 includes a battery unit that supplies direct current to the coil of the heater assembly 10, and a converter that converts the direct current supplied from the battery unit into alternating current that is supplied to the coil of the heater assembly 10.

[0069] The battery unit supplies direct current to the aerosol generation device 1. The battery unit may be, but is not limited to, a lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery. For example, the battery unit may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, etc.

[0070] The conversion unit includes a low-pass filter that filters the DC supplied from the battery and outputs the AC supplied to the heater assembly 10. The conversion unit may further include an amplifier for amplifying the DC supplied from the battery unit. For example, the conversion unit is embodied by a low-pass filter that forms a load network of a class-D amplifier.

[0071] The control unit 30 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 30 may be embodied as an array of multiple logic gates or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor, but is not limited to these.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the control unit 30 controls the power supplied to the heater assembly 10. Here, the control unit 30 also controls the coil of the heater assembly 10. The control unit 30 controls the battery 20 to adjust the power supplied to the coil of the heater assembly 10. For example, the control unit 30 can perform control based on the temperature of the coil of the heater assembly 10 to maintain a constant temperature at which the coil heats the aerosol product 2.

[0073] The aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment further includes a vaporizer 40 .

[0074] The vaporizer 40 heats the aerosol-generating substance in a liquid state to generate an aerosol, which is then transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 travels along an airflow passage in the aerosol generating device 1, and the airflow passage is configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 40 passes through the aerosol product 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0075] For example, the vaporizer 40 may include, but is not limited to, a storage unit for storing the aerosol generating substance in a liquid state, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be provided in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0076] The storage unit stores a liquid-phase aerosol-forming material. For example, the liquid-phase aerosol-forming material may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The storage unit may be configured to be detachable from the vaporizer 40, or may be configured as an integral part of the vaporizer 40.

[0077] For example, the aerosol-generating substance may include water, solvent, ethyl alcohol, plant extract, fragrance, flavoring, or vitamin mixture. Flavorings include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit-flavored ingredients. Flavorings include ingredients that provide the user with a variety of flavors or tastes. Vitamin mixtures include, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The aerosol-generating substance may also include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0078] The liquid transfer means transfers the aerosol-generating substance in the reservoir to the heating element, and may be, for example, but not limited to, a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0079] The heating element is an element for heating the aerosol-generating substance delivered by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, or the like. The heating element may also be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a wound structure around the liquid delivery means. The heating element is heated by supplying electric current and transfers heat to the aerosol-generating substance in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the aerosol-generating substance. As a result, an aerosol is generated.

[0080] For example, the vaporizer 40 may be called, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0081] When the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment further includes a vaporizer 40, the battery 20 supplies power to the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40 so that the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40 is heated, and the control unit 30 can control the power supplied to the heater assembly 10 or the vaporizer 40.

[0082] When an aerosol product 2 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 activates the heater assembly 10 and / or the vaporizer 40 to generate aerosol from the aerosol product 2 and / or the vaporizer 40. The aerosol generated by the heater assembly 10 and / or the vaporizer 40 passes through the aerosol product 2 and is delivered to the user.

[0083] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0084] Referring to FIG. 2, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a first cover 200, and a second cover 300.

[0085] The interior space of the body 100 defines a storage space for storing the aerosol product 2. A heater may be disposed in the storage space of the body 100 for storing the aerosol product 2. That is, the interior space of the body 100 also serves as a space for storing the aerosol product 2 and forming a magnetic field for heating the aerosol product 2. When the aerosol product 2 is stored in the storage space of the body 100, the heater may be disposed to surround the aerosol product 2.

[0086] The body 100 functions as a main body of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, and a first cover 200 and a second cover 300 are coupled to the body 100. The first cover 200 and the second cover 300 are coupled to the body 100 and supported by the body 100. The body 100 is generally formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, but the shape is not limited thereto.

[0087] The holder 150 is disposed on one side (e.g., in the +z direction) of the body 100 and serves to support the aerosol product 2 accommodated in the accommodation space of the body 100. The holder 150 is formed with an insertion hole 150a into which the aerosol product 2 is inserted, and the insertion hole 150a communicates with the accommodation space of the body 100. The aerosol product 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the body 100 through the insertion hole 150a.

[0088] The holder 150 includes ridges 150b that support the aerosol product 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. The ridges 150b protrude toward the insertion hole 150a and contact the aerosol product 2 inserted into the insertion hole 150a. In one embodiment, a plurality of ridges 150b may be spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the insertion hole 150a.

[0089] The holder 150 may be coupled to the body 100 by being coupled to the first cover 200. The holder 150 includes a holder protrusion 150c that protrudes toward the first cover 200. The holder protrusion 150c may be inserted into the first cover 200, thereby coupling the holder 150 to the first cover 200. The holder protrusions 150c may be arranged on both sides of the insertion hole 150a, one on each side.

[0090] The first cover 200 is disposed on one side (for example, in the +z direction) of the body 100. The first cover 200 is coupled to one side of the body 100 and covers one side of the receiving space of the body 100.

[0091] The second cover 300 may be disposed on the other side (for example, in the −z direction) of the body 100. The second cover 300 is coupled to the other side of the body 100 to cover the other side of the receiving space of the body 100.

[0092] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0093] 3, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a first cover 200, and a second cover 300. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 2, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0094] The second cover 300 includes a second cover body 310, a second cover protruding member 320, a passage hole 330, and a seal insertion groove 340. However, the components of the second cover 300 are not limited thereto, and depending on the embodiment, at least one of the above-described components (e.g., the seal insertion groove 340) may be omitted or another component may be added.

[0095] The second cover body 310 functions as the main body of the second cover 300 and is disposed to enclose at least a portion of the body 100. The second cover body 310 includes a protrusion protruding toward the body 100, and the body 100 includes an insertion portion into which the protrusion of the second cover body 310 is inserted. The second cover 300 can be coupled to the body 100 by inserting the protrusion of the second cover body 310 into the insertion portion of the body 100. However, the coupling method between the second cover 300 and the body 100 is not limited thereto.

[0096] The second cover protruding member 320 protrudes from the second cover body 310 toward one side (for example, the -z direction). A sealing portion (described later) is inserted into or sandwiched and coupled to the second cover protruding member 320. However, the coupling method between the second cover protruding member 320 and the sealing portion is not limited thereto.

[0097] At least a portion of a sealing portion (described later) is inserted into the through hole 330, and a wire for supplying power to the heater 500 passes through the through hole 330. By inserting at least a portion of the sealing portion into the through hole 330, one side (e.g., the -z direction) of the second cover 300 may be sealed. The through hole 330 is formed by penetrating the second cover body 310 and the second cover protruding member 320.

[0098] At least a portion of a seal portion (described later) may be inserted into the seal insertion groove 340. The second cover 300 and the seal portion are coupled together by inserting at least a portion of the seal portion into the seal insertion groove 340. The seal insertion groove 340 is formed in the second cover protruding member 320. In one embodiment, one seal insertion groove 340 is formed on each side of the second cover protruding member 320.

[0099] Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly for the aerosol generating device according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2. In Fig. 4, a heater 500 disposed on the support unit 400 is shown by a dotted line.

[0100] Referring to Figure 4, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a first sealing 160, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0101] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figures 2 and 3 (e.g., the body 100, the holder 150, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300), and therefore, redundant description will be omitted below.

[0102] On the other hand, the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to these, and depending on the embodiment, at least one of the above-mentioned components (e.g., the first sealing 160) may be omitted or another component (e.g., a susceptor) may be added.

[0103] The first seal 160 is disposed between the holder 150 and the first cover 200. The first seal 160 is disposed between the holder 150 and the first cover 200 and functions to seal the gap between the holder 150 and the first cover 200. The first seal 160 is generally formed in a circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0104] The second seal 170 is disposed on the first cover 200. The second seal 170 is located in an article insertion portion formed in the first cover 200 and is disposed to surround the aerosol product 2 inserted in the article insertion portion. That is, the second seal 170 functions to seal the gap between the aerosol product 2 inserted in the article insertion portion and the first cover 200. The second seal 170 is generally formed in a circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] The third sealing member 180 is located inside the support unit 400, below (e.g., in the -z direction) the aerosol product 2 accommodated in the accommodation space of the body 100. The third sealing member 180 serves to seal the inner space of the support unit 400. The third sealing member 180 is generally formed in a circular ring shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0106] The third sealing 180, the second sealing 170, and the first sealing 160 each include a rubber material.

[0107] The support unit 400 is disposed in the receiving space of the body 100 and functions to support the heater 500. When the aerosol product 2 is received in the receiving space of the body 100, the support unit 400 is disposed to surround the aerosol product 2. The support unit 400 is also called a bobbin and is generally formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, but its shape is not limited thereto as long as it can support the heater 500.

[0108] The heater 500 is disposed in the accommodation space of the body 100 and heats the aerosol product 2 accommodated in the accommodation space. When the aerosol product 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the body 100, the heater 500 may be disposed to surround the aerosol product 2.

[0109] The heater 500 may be a coil that applies an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor. When power is supplied to the coil from a battery, a magnetic field is formed inside the coil. When an alternating current is applied to the coil, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil may change continuously. When the susceptor is placed inside the coil and exposed to the alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically, the susceptor generates heat, and the aerosol product 2 contained in the containing space of the body 100 is heated.

[0110] For example, the coil can generate an alternating magnetic field to heat a susceptor disposed within the aerosol production product 2. The susceptor heated by the heater 500 heats the aerosol production product 2, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0111] The heater 500 extends in the longitudinal direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the heater 500 extends a length corresponding to the length of the support unit 400, or extends a length shorter than the length of the support unit 400.

[0112] The heater 500 is disposed at a position suitable for applying an alternating magnetic field to the susceptor. For example, the heater 500 is disposed on the support unit 400 so as to be located at a position corresponding to the susceptor. Such a size and arrangement of the heater 500 improves the efficiency with which the alternating magnetic field of the heater 500 is applied to the susceptor.

[0113] When the amplitude or frequency of the alternating magnetic field generated by the heater 500 is changed, the degree to which the heater 500 heats the aerosol product 2 may also be changed. Because the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field generated by the heater 500 is changed depending on the power applied to the heater 500, the aerosol generation device 1 can control the heating of the aerosol product 2 by adjusting the power applied to the heater 500. For example, the aerosol generation device 1 controls the amplitude and frequency of the alternating current applied to the heater 500.

[0114] As one example, the heater 500 may be implemented as a solenoid. The heater 500 is a solenoid wound along the extension direction of the support unit 400, and the susceptor and the aerosol generator 2 are located in the internal space of the solenoid. The material of the conductor constituting the solenoid is copper (Cu). However, the material is not limited thereto, and the conductor constituting the solenoid may be any one of silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni), or an alloy containing at least one of them.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the heater 500 is disposed inside the support unit 400. That is, the heater 500 is disposed inside the support unit 400 and is integrally formed with the support unit 400. For example, the heater 500 is insert-injected into the support unit 400. As a result, according to the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater 500 and the support unit 400 can be manufactured together using a simple manufacturing method called insert-injection. This improves the productivity of the heater assembly 10.

[0116] The insert sawing process refers to a process in which a resin is injected into a mold after a separate material, such as metal, has already been inserted into the mold. Through the insert sawing process, a product in which metal and resin (e.g., thermoplastic) are combined can be manufactured. For example, if the heater 500 includes metal and the support unit 400 includes resin, the heater 500 made of metal can be placed in the mold, and then resin can be injected into the mold to manufacture both the support unit 400 and the heater 500.

[0117] The antenna 600 is disposed in the storage space of the body 100 and detects whether the aerosol product 2 is stored in the storage space of the body 100. The information sensed by the antenna 600 is transmitted to the control unit or memory of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0118] As an example, the aerosol product 2 includes a metal material such as aluminum, and the antenna 600 includes an inductance sensor that detects a change in inductance that occurs when the aerosol product 2 is accommodated in the accommodation space of the body 100.

[0119] As another example, the antenna 600 may include a capacitance sensor or a magnetic proximity sensor that can sense changes in electromagnetic properties due to the aerosol product 2 adjacent to the storage space of the body 100. However, the antenna 600 is not necessarily limited thereto, and may also include other types of sensors such as an optical sensor, a temperature sensor, a resistance sensor, etc.

[0120] The sensing unit 700 is disposed in the accommodation space of the body 100 and senses the temperature inside the accommodation space of the body 100. In one embodiment, the sensing unit 700 senses the temperature of at least one of the heater 500 or the susceptor. Information sensed by the sensing unit 700 is transmitted to a control unit or memory of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0121] The sensing unit 700 is a thermocouple wire, but can be used without limitation as long as it can sense the internal temperature of the storage space.

[0122] The shielding unit 800 is disposed in the receiving space of the body 100 and surrounds the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The shielding unit 800 is generally formed in a hollow cylindrical shape, but the shape is not limited thereto.

[0123] The sealing unit 900 is coupled to the second cover 300 and functions to seal one side (e.g., the -z direction) of the second cover 300. The sealing unit 900 includes a first sealing member 910 and a second sealing member 920, which will be described in detail later.

[0124] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain an example of heater arrangement.

[0125] Referring to Figure 5, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0126] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in Figure 4, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0127] On the other hand, the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment are not limited to these, and depending on the embodiment, at least one of the above-mentioned components (e.g., the first sealing 160) may be omitted or other components may be added.

[0128] The body 100 is disposed at the outermost position among the components of the heater assembly 10 (e.g., the support unit 400, the heater 500, the antenna 600, the sensing unit 700, and the shielding unit 800). That is, the support unit 400, the heater 500, the antenna 600, the sensing unit 700, and the shielding unit 800 may be disposed inside the body 100. The body 100 may be made of a material such as stainless steel (SUS: Steel Use Stainless), aluminum, or the like.

[0129] The upper part of the body 100 (e.g., the part facing the +z direction) and the first cover 200 are joined together, and the lower part of the body 100 (e.g., the part facing the -z direction) and the second cover 300 are joined together, thereby forming a storage space 10a inside the body 100 for storing the aerosol product 2.

[0130] The aerosol product 2 and a susceptor are disposed in the accommodation space 10a. In one embodiment, when the heater assembly 10 includes a susceptor, the aerosol product 2 is accommodated inside the susceptor and heated by the susceptor. In another embodiment, when a susceptor is disposed inside the aerosol product 2, the heater 500 may be located at a position corresponding to the susceptor and heat the susceptor by applying a magnetic field to it.

[0131] When a susceptor is disposed inside the aerosol product 2, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment does not include a separate susceptor, so the space for disposing the susceptor is omitted and other components can be disposed in the omitted space, thereby improving space utilization of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0132] Although not shown, a material that reflects heat generated by the heater 500 and / or the susceptor to the accommodation space 10a is deposited on at least a portion of the inner surface of at least one of the body 100, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300. This reduces the likelihood that the heat generated by the heater 500 and / or the susceptor will be immediately dissipated to the outside of the heater assembly 10, thereby improving the heat insulating performance of the heater assembly 10. For example, the material deposited on the inner surface of at least one of the body 100, the first cover 200, and the second cover 300 includes a metal material such as silver (Ag).

[0133] The holder 150 is coupled to an upper portion (e.g., a portion facing the +z direction) of the first cover 200. The aerosol product 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a of the holder 150 is accommodated in the accommodating space 10a via the article insertion portion 240 formed in the first cover 200. The article insertion portion 240 is formed to penetrate the upper and lower surfaces of the first cover 200 and is connected to the insertion hole 150a of the holder 150 and the accommodating space 10a, respectively.

[0134] The holder 150 can be coupled to the first cover 200 by inserting the holder protrusion 150c of the holder 150 into the holder insertion portion 250 formed in the first cover 200. The holder insertion portion 250 is formed by machining a groove of a predetermined depth from the top surface of the first cover 200.

[0135] The first cover 200 is coupled to one side (e.g., in the +z direction) of the body 100. One side of the body 100 is inserted into a first body insertion portion 260 formed in the first cover 200, thereby coupling the first cover 200 to the body 100 and covering one side of the accommodating space 10a with the first cover 200. The first body insertion portion 260 is formed by machining a groove of a predetermined depth from the bottom surface of the first cover 200.

[0136] The first cover 200 includes a first cover body 210 and a cover heat insulating member 220 .

[0137] The first cover body 210 functions as the body of the first cover 200. An article insertion portion 240 is formed inside the first cover body 210, and the aerosol product 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a can pass through the first cover body 210 and be accommodated in the accommodation space 10a. A holder insertion portion 250 and a first body insertion portion 260 are formed in the first cover body 210 at positions spaced apart from each other.

[0138] The cover insulating member 220 extends in one direction (for example, the -z direction) from the first cover body 210 and is disposed outside the heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400. As a result, the cover insulating member 220 functions as a physical barrier that prevents heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can improve its thermal insulation performance by using a double physical barrier via the cover insulating member 220 in addition to the body 100.

[0139] In one embodiment, the cover insulating member 220 may be integrally formed with the first cover body 210 .

[0140] The second cover 300 is coupled to the other side (e.g., in the −z direction) of the body 100. The other side of the body 100 is inserted into a second body insertion portion 310a formed inside the second cover 300, thereby coupling the second cover 300 to the body 100 and covering the other side of the receiving space 10a.

[0141] The second cover 300 includes an engaging member 310b that is inserted into the cover insertion groove 100a of the body 100. The engaging member 310b is inserted into the cover insertion groove 100a, thereby maintaining the second cover 300 and the body 100 in a coupled state. The engaging member 310b protrudes toward the second body insertion portion 310a along the circumferential direction of the second cover main body 310, and the cover insertion groove 100a is formed to penetrate the outer and inner surfaces of the body 100. The engaging member 310b is formed integrally with the second cover main body 310.

[0142] The support unit 400 is disposed so as to surround the accommodation space 10a, and supports a heater 500 that generates heat from a susceptor disposed in the accommodation space 10a. The support unit 400 is disposed inside the shielding unit 800, and is supported by the body 100 and the first cover 200.

[0143] The sensing connection unit 450 is disposed on the support unit 400. The sensing connection unit 450 functions to connect the sensing unit 700 to the support unit 400. As a result, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is embodied in a structure in which the sensing unit 700 easily senses the temperature of the heater 500 disposed on the support unit 400 via the sensing connection unit 450. For example, the sensing connection unit 450 is disposed on the support unit 400 so as to be in contact with the heater 500.

[0144] In one embodiment, the sensing connection unit 450 is disposed on at least a portion of the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400, and the sensing connection unit 450 and at least a portion of the support unit 400 are insert-molded together. The sensing connection unit 450 includes a metal material, such as at least one of copper (Cu), silver (Ag), gold (Au), aluminum (Al), tungsten (W), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni).

[0145] The heater 500 is disposed in the support unit 400 and may generate heat from a susceptor disposed in the accommodation space 10a. The heater 500 may be formed to have a circular cross-sectional area when cut along a plane (e.g., an xz plane) passing through a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) in which the support unit 400 extends and a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) intersecting the extension direction of the support unit 400. That is, when viewed from the y-axis direction, the heater 500 may be formed to have a circular cross-sectional area.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the heater 500 is disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) transverse to the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 can be disposed on the support unit 400 so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0147] As a result, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400, so that space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the utilization of the space inside the body 100 is improved, and the heater assembly 10 can be made smaller.

[0148] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment is embodied in a structure that reduces the overall distance between the heater 500 and the receiving space 10a, thereby allowing the susceptor disposed in the receiving space 10a to be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the susceptor.

[0149] The antenna 600 is arranged to surround the storage space 10a and detects whether the aerosol product 2 is stored in the storage space 10a. The antenna 600 is arranged inside the body 100, between the cover insulating member 220 and the shielding unit 800.

[0150] The sensing unit 700 is disposed on one side (e.g., in the +x direction) of the support unit 400 inside the body 100 and senses the temperature of at least one of the heater 500 or the susceptor. In one embodiment, the sensing unit 700 may be in contact with the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 to sense the temperature of the heater 500. The sensing unit 700 is in contact with the support unit 400 by contacting the sensing connection unit 450.

[0151] The sensing unit 700 includes a sensing body 710 and a sensing connection part 720 .

[0152] The sensing body 710 functions as a main body of the sensing unit 700, and extends along the extension direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. The sensing body 710 is disposed between the body 100 and the shielding unit 800. The sensing body 710 may be integrally formed with the sensing connecting portion 720.

[0153] The sensing connection portion 720 may be a part of the sensing unit 700 that is connected to the support unit 400. The sensing connection portion 720 includes a first portion that extends in a direction transverse to the extension direction of the sensing body 710 (e.g., the −x direction) and a second portion that extends in a direction transverse to the extension direction of the first portion (e.g., the −z direction). At least a portion of the first portion is supported by the support unit 400, and at least a portion of the second portion is connected to the support unit 400 via the sensing connection unit 450.

[0154] The shielding unit 800 is disposed inside the body 100 to surround the accommodation space 10a, and is disposed between the support unit 400 and the sensing unit 700. That is, the shielding unit 800 may be disposed outside the support unit 400 in which the heater 500 is disposed. As a result, the shielding unit 800 functions as a physical barrier that prevents heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside of the heater assembly 10. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment can improve its thermal insulation performance by using a double physical barrier via the shielding unit 800 in addition to the body 100 and the cover insulation member 220.

[0155] The shielding unit 800 may include a metal material to prevent heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being dissipated to the outside of the heater assembly 10. For example, the shielding unit 800 includes a material such as aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag).

[0156] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2, for explaining another example of heater arrangement.

[0157] Referring to Figure 6, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0158] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0159] At least a portion of the heater 500 protrudes from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to partially overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that intersects with the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 may be disposed spaced apart from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0160] As a result, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400, so that space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the utilization of the space inside the body 100 is improved, and the heater assembly 10 can be made smaller.

[0161] Furthermore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment may be embodied in a structure in which the overall distance between the heater 500 and the receiving space 10a is further reduced compared to the embodiment shown in Fig. 5. As a result, the susceptor disposed in the receiving space 10a is more easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, thereby further improving the heating efficiency of the susceptor.

[0162] According to one embodiment, a groove is formed on the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400, and the heater 500 is inserted into the groove to be disposed on the support unit 400. The groove formed on the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 extends along the extension direction of the heater assembly 10 (e.g., the z-axis direction), and is formed along the circumferential direction of the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400.

[0163] Although not shown, the heater 500 may be disposed along the inner surface 400 a of the support unit 400 while being in contact with the inner surface 400 a of the support unit 400 .

[0164] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2 to explain an example of the heater structure.

[0165] Referring to Figure 7, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0166] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0167] The heater 500 may be formed to have a cross-sectional area extending in one direction based on a plane (e.g., an xz plane) passing through a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) in which the support unit 400 extends and a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) intersecting the first direction. For example, the heater 500 may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional area when cut based on the xz plane. That is, when the heater 500 is viewed from the y-axis direction, the heater 500 may be formed to have a rectangular cross-sectional area.

[0168] As a result, as the cross-sectional area of ​​the heater 500 increases, the resistance of the heater 500 decreases, and therefore, even if the same power is supplied to the heater 500 from the battery, a higher current can be applied to the heater 500. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment can increase the amplitude or frequency of the magnetic field applied to the susceptor, thereby increasing the heat generation amount of the susceptor. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the heater 500 generates a magnetic field having a frequency of 1 MHz or more and 2 MHz or less, while in the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the heater 500 may generate a magnetic field having a frequency of 5 MHz or more.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the heater 500 is disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) transverse to the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 may be disposed on the support unit 400 so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0170] As a result, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, the heater 500 is not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400, so that space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the utilization of the space inside the body 100 is improved, and the heater assembly 10 can be made smaller.

[0171] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment is embodied in a structure that reduces the overall distance between the heater 500 and the receiving space 10a, thereby allowing the susceptor disposed in the receiving space 10a to be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 500, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the susceptor.

[0172] 7, at least a portion of the heater 500 protrudes from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to partially overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that intersects with the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0173] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2, for explaining an example of a heating method of the heater.

[0174] Referring to Figure 8, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0175] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0176] The gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 varies along the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the support unit 400. For example, the gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 arranged on one side (e.g., +z direction) of the support unit 400 is narrower than the gap between adjacent portions of the heater 500 arranged on the other side (e.g., −z direction) of the support unit 400.

[0177] As a result, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment can set different heating rates between one side of the susceptor disposed inside the heater 500 and the other side of the susceptor. Thus, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment embodies a structure in which different parts of the susceptor can be heated to different temperatures by one heater 500 connected in series.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the heater 500 is disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) transverse to the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 may be disposed on the support unit 400 so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0179] 8, at least a portion of the heater 500 protrudes from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a. That is, the heater 500 is disposed so as to partially overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that intersects with the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the heater 500 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodation space 10a so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0180] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment taken along the AA' cross-sectional line in FIG. 2, for explaining another example of a heating method of the heater.

[0181] Referring to Figure 9, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, a shielding unit 800, and a sealing portion 900.

[0182] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0183] The heater 500 includes a first heater 510 and a second heater 520 spaced apart from each other and disposed on the support unit 400. That is, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be disposed on different portions of the support unit 400. The first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be coils that generate an alternating magnetic field and are connected to a battery and a controller, respectively.

[0184] Therefore, according to the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment, the controller can individually control the first heater 510 and the second heater 520, thereby controlling the frequencies or heating rates of the magnetic fields generated by the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 to be different from each other. Therefore, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment embodies a structure in which different parts of the susceptor can be heated to different temperatures by the two heaters 500.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 are disposed between the inner surface 400a and the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. That is, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 are disposed so as to completely overlap the support unit 400 with respect to a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that intersects with the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may be disposed on the support unit 400 so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0186] As a result, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 are not disposed on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400, so that space for disposing other components of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., the shielding unit 800) can be secured on the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400. Therefore, the utilization of the space inside the body 100 is improved, and the heater assembly 10 can be made smaller.

[0187] In addition, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment is embodied in a structure that reduces the overall distance between the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 and the receiving space 10a, thereby allowing the susceptor disposed in the receiving space 10a to be easily affected by the magnetic field generated by the heater 510 and the second heater 520, thereby improving the heating efficiency of the susceptor.

[0188] 9, at least a portion of the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 protrudes from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodating space 10a. That is, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 are disposed to partially overlap the support unit 400 in a direction (e.g., x-axis direction) that intersects with the extension direction (e.g., z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In this case, the first heater 510 and the second heater 520 may protrude from the inner surface 400a of the support unit 400 toward the accommodating space 10a so as not to protrude outward from the outer surface 400b of the support unit 400.

[0189] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, taken along the line BB' in FIG.

[0190] Referring to Figure 10, a heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a body 100, a holder 150, a second sealing 170, a third sealing 180, a first cover 200, a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a sensing connection unit 450, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a shielding unit 800.

[0191] At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is identical to or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 5, and therefore, a duplicate description will be omitted below.

[0192] The first cover 200 further includes a first cover protruding member 230 and a coupling hole 270 .

[0193] The first cover protruding members 230 protrude outward so that a connecting member such as a screw can be connected to fix the heater assembly 10 within the aerosol generation device 1. The first cover protruding members 230 protrude outward from the first cover body 210, and are disposed one on each end of the first cover body 210. The first cover protruding members 230 may be formed integrally with the first cover body 210.

[0194] The coupling holes 270 are formed in the first cover protruding member 230. The coupling members, which will be described later, are inserted into the coupling holes 270. The coupling holes 270 are formed to penetrate the first cover protruding member 230, and the number of the coupling holes 270 is the same as the number of the first cover protruding members 230.

[0195] 11 is a perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, in which a holder, a first cover, a support unit, and a heater are assembled together. In FIG. 11, a heater 500 disposed in the support unit 400 is indicated by a dotted line.

[0196] 11, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a holder 150, a first cover 200, a support unit 400, and a heater 500. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 10, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0197] The holder 150 is coupled to the first cover 200 on one side (e.g., the +z direction) of the first cover 200. Specifically, the holder protrusion 150c is inserted into the holder insertion portion 250, thereby coupling the holder 150 to the first cover 200. When the holder 150 is coupled to the first cover 200, the insertion hole 150a and the article insertion portion 240 are communicated, and the aerosol product 2 inserted through the insertion hole 150a and the article insertion portion 240 is supported by the ridge 150b.

[0198] The first cover 200 is fixed inside the aerosol generation device 1 by inserting the connecting member 280 into the connecting hole 270 formed in the first cover protruding member 230. The connecting member 280 can fix the heater assembly 10 inside the aerosol generation device 1 by fixing the first cover 200 to the aerosol generation device 1. The connecting member 280 is a screw, but can be used without limitation as long as it can fix the first cover 200.

[0199] The cover insulating member 220 extends along the extension direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) of the heater assembly 10. In one embodiment, the cover insulating member 220 may extend longer than the support unit 400 and the heater 500. This increases the area that the cover insulating member 220 covers over the support unit 400 and the heater 500, thereby further improving the insulating performance.

[0200] The cover insulating member 220 is inserted into the body 100 and is disposed so as to surround a portion of the outer periphery of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. As a result, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can more easily insert the cover insulating member 220 into the body 100 than the comparative example in which the cover insulating member 220 surrounds the entire outer periphery of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. This is because in the comparative example, the area where the cover insulating member 220 interferes with the body 100 increases during the process of inserting the cover insulating member 220 into the body 100. As a result, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment can improve the ease of assembling the cover insulating member 220 and the body 100.

[0201] The heater 500 includes a heater connection portion 500a for electrically connecting to a battery or a control unit of the aerosol generation device 1. The heater connection portion 500a protrudes downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the support unit 400 to be mounted on the battery. The heater connection portion 500a protruding downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the support unit 400 is a line for supplying power to the heater 500 described above, and is connected to the battery or the control unit by passing through a through hole 330 (shown in FIG. 3) of the second cover 300 (shown in FIG. 3).

[0202] 12 is a perspective view of a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, showing a support unit, a heater, an antenna, and a sensing unit, in which a heater 500 disposed on the support unit 400 is shown by a dotted line.

[0203] 12, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, and a sensing unit 700. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 11, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0204] The antenna 600 includes an antenna body 610 , an antenna extension 620 , and an antenna connection 630 .

[0205] The antenna body 610 functions as the main body of the antenna 600 and extends in the same direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) as the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The antenna body 610 is inserted into the body 100 and disposed so as to surround a portion of the outer periphery of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. As a result, in the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, the antenna body 610 can be more easily inserted into the body 100 than in a comparative example in which the antenna body 610 surrounds the entire outer periphery of the support unit 400 and the heater 500.

[0206] The antenna extension 620 extends from the antenna body 610 in the circumferential direction of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. That is, the antenna extension 620 is disposed to surround a portion of the outer periphery of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The antenna extension 620 includes a first extension extending from one side of the antenna body 610 and a second extension extending from the other side of the antenna body 610.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the end of the first extension portion and the end of the second extension portion are spaced apart from each other, and a sensing passage 600a is formed at the spaced apart portion. Thus, the sensing unit 700 can pass through the sensing passage 600a and come into contact with the support unit 400. That is, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is embodied in a structure in which the antenna 600 and the sensing unit 700 do not come into contact with each other, thereby reducing the possibility of an electrical short circuit occurring between the antenna 600 and the sensing unit 700. The sensing connection portion 720 of the sensing unit 700 passes through the sensing passage 600a.

[0208] The antenna connection portion 630 may protrude downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the antenna body 610 to be electrically connected to a battery or a control unit of the aerosol generation device 1. The antenna connection portion 630 protruding downward (e.g., in the -z direction) from the antenna body 610 passes through a through hole 330 (shown in FIG. 3) of the second cover 300 (shown in FIG. 3) to be connected to the battery or the control unit. The antenna connection portion 630 may be formed integrally with the antenna body 610.

[0209] The sensing unit 700 includes a sensing body 710 , a sensing linking portion 720 , and a sensing connecting portion 730 .

[0210] The sensing body 710 extends in the same direction as the support unit 400 and the heater 500, and is disposed on one side (e.g., the +x direction) of the support unit 400 and the heater 500. The sensing body 710 is disposed between the sensing connection part 720 and the sensing connection part 730, and connects the sensing connection part 720 and the sensing connection part 730. The sensing body 710, the sensing connection part 720, and the sensing connection part 730 may be integrally formed.

[0211] The sensing connection part 720 passes through the sensing passage part 600a and is connected to the support unit 400. At least a part of the sensing connection part 720 may extend in a direction different from the extension direction of the sensing body 710 and be connected to the support unit 400.

[0212] The sensing connection portion 730 may protrude in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) from the sensing body 710 to be electrically connected to a battery or a control unit of the aerosol generation device 1. The sensing connection portion 730 protruding in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) from the sensing body 710 passes through a through hole 330 (shown in FIG. 3) of the second cover 300 (shown in FIG. 3) to be connected to the battery or the control unit. In one embodiment, the sensing connection portion 730 includes a first connection portion extending in one direction (e.g., the -z direction) and a second connection portion extending in a direction intersecting the one direction (e.g., the +x direction).

[0213] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a first cover and an antenna combined together in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0214] 13, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a first cover 200 and an antenna 600. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 12, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0215] The first cover body 210 is disposed on one side (for example, in the +z direction) of the antenna 600 to cover the one side of the antenna 600 .

[0216] The cover heat insulating member 220 is disposed inside the antenna 600 and is surrounded by the antenna 600 .

[0217] In the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, once the first cover 200 and the antenna 600 are assembled, the antenna 600 may be disposed to surround at least a portion of the cover insulation member 220. That is, the antenna body 610 is disposed outside the cover insulation member 220 to support the cover insulation member 220 from the outside. As a result, the antenna body 610 can fix the position of the cover insulation member 220, and the cover insulation member 220 can stably prevent heat generated in the accommodation space 10a from being released to the outside.

[0218] FIG. 14 is a combined perspective view of an antenna, a sensing unit, and a shielding unit in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0219] 14, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a shielding unit 800. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 13, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0220] The shielding unit 800 includes a shielding body 810 and a sensing passage portion 820 .

[0221] The shielding body 810 functions as a body of the shielding unit 800 and is disposed to surround the antenna 600. Once the assembly of the shielding unit 800 in the heater assembly 10 is completed, the shielding body 810 is disposed to surround the support unit 400, the heater 500, and the antenna 600.

[0222] The sensing passage 820 is formed in at least one region of the shielding body 810. The sensing passage 820 may be formed on one side of the shielding body 810 (e.g., the surface facing the +x direction), and the sensing unit 700 is disposed on one side of the shielding body 810.

[0223] The sensing connector 720 passes through the sensing passage 820. That is, the sensing connector 720 passes through both the sensing passage 820 of the shielding unit 800 and the sensing passage 600a of the sensing unit 700 and is connected to the support unit 400. That is, according to the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, even if the sensing unit 700 is disposed outside the antenna 600 and the shielding unit 800, the sensing connector 720 may be embodied in a structure connected to the support unit 400 disposed inside the antenna 600 and the shielding unit 800.

[0224] 15 is a perspective view of the second cover, support unit, heater, antenna, sensing unit, and seal unit combined together to explain how the seal unit is combined with the second cover. In FIG. 15, heater 500 disposed on support unit 400 is indicated by a dotted line.

[0225] 15, the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a second cover 300, a support unit 400, a heater 500, an antenna 600, a sensing unit 700, and a sealing part 900. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 14, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0226] The heater 500 is electrically connected to the battery or the control unit via the heater connection part 500a, and for this purpose, the heater connection part 500a passes through the second cover 300 and is mounted on the battery or the control unit.

[0227] The antenna 600 is electrically connected to the battery or the control unit through the antenna connection part 630, and for this purpose, the antenna connection part 630 passes through the second cover 300 and is mounted on the battery or the control unit.

[0228] The sensing unit 700 is electrically connected to a battery or a control unit via a sensing connection part 730, and for this purpose, the sensing connection part 730 passes through the second cover 300 and is mounted on the battery or the control unit.

[0229] The sealing part 900 is coupled to the second cover 300 and functions to seal the passage holes 330 through which the connecting parts 500a, 630, and 730 pass through the second cover 300. In other words, the sealing part 900 seals at least a portion of the second cover 300, thereby sealing the lower side (e.g., the -z direction) of the internal space of the body 100.

[0230] The sealing unit 900 includes a first sealing member 910 and a second sealing member 920, which will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0231] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of a second cover and a sealing portion in a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0232] 16, the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment includes a second cover 300 and a sealing part 900. At least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the heater assembly 10 for the aerosol generating device shown in FIGS. 2 to 15, and therefore, a duplicated description will be omitted below.

[0233] The second cover 300 includes a second cover body 310 , a second cover protruding member 320 , a through hole 330 , and a seal insertion groove 340 .

[0234] The second cover body 310 functions as the body of the second cover 300, and at least a portion of the seal portion 900 (for example, the second seal member 920) can be coupled thereto.

[0235] The second cover protruding member 320 protrudes from the second cover body 310 toward one side (for example, the -z direction). The seal part 900 is inserted into or sandwiched and coupled to the second cover protruding member 320. The second cover protruding member 320 may be formed integrally with the second cover body 310.

[0236] At least a portion of the sealing portion 900 (e.g., the first sealing member 910) is inserted into the passing hole 330, and the above-mentioned connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 pass through the passing hole 330. The passing hole 330 is formed to penetrate the second cover body 310 and the second cover protruding member 320, respectively.

[0237] At least a part of the seal portion 900 (for example, the second seal member 920) is inserted into the seal insertion groove 340. The seal insertion groove 340 is formed in the second cover protruding member 320, for example, one on each side of the second cover protruding member 320.

[0238] The seal portion 900 includes a first seal member 910 and a second seal member 920 .

[0239] The first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through hole 330. In one embodiment, the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through hole 330 in a force-fit manner.

[0240] The second seal member 920 is coupled to the second cover protruding member 320. The second seal member 920 has a hole formed therein, and the second cover protruding member 320 is inserted into the hole. In one embodiment, the second cover protruding member 320 may be inserted into the hole in a force-fit manner.

[0241] FIG. 17 is a view showing the second cover of FIG.

[0242] 17, the second cover 300 includes a second cover body 310, a second cover protruding member 320, a passage hole 330, and a seal insertion groove 340. The components of the second cover 300 have been described with reference to FIG. 16, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0243] The second cover 300 includes an outer surface 300a and an inner surface 300b.

[0244] The outer surface 300a of the second cover 300 is defined as the outer surface of the second cover protruding member 320, and the second seal member 920 comes into contact with the outer surface 300a of the second cover 300.

[0245] The inner surface 300b of the second cover 300 is defined as the inner surface of the second cover protruding member 320 facing the passage hole 330, and the first seal member 910 contacts the inner surface 300b of the second cover 300.

[0246] 18A is a view showing the first seal member of FIG. 16, and FIG. 18B is a view showing the second seal member of FIG.

[0247] Referring to FIG. 18A, the first seal member 910 includes a first seal body 911 , a first passage groove 912 , and a second passage groove 913 .

[0248] The first seal body 911 is inserted into the passage hole 330 as the main body of the first seal member 910. A first passage groove 912 and a second passage groove 913 may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other in the first seal body 911. The first seal body 911 is generally formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but may be formed in other shapes as long as it can be inserted into the passage hole 330.

[0249] The first passage grooves 912 are formed in the first seal body 911, and allow the heater connection portions 500a to pass through. The first passage grooves 912 are formed by machining grooves of a predetermined depth from the outer surface of the first seal body 911. Although two first passage grooves 912 are shown in FIG. 18A, this is merely an example, and there is no limit to the number of first passage grooves 912 that can be formed. For example, the first passage grooves 912 may be formed in the first seal body 911 in the same number as the heater connection portions 500a.

[0250] The second passage groove 913, through which the sensing connection portion 730 passes, is formed in the first seal body 911 at a position spaced apart from the first passage groove 912. The second passage groove 913 is formed by machining a groove of a predetermined depth from the outer surface of the first seal body 911. Although one second passage groove 913 is shown in FIG. 18A, this is merely an example, and there is no limit to the number of second passage grooves 913 that may be formed. For example, the same number of second passage grooves 913 as the number of sensing connection portions 730 may be formed in the first seal body 911.

[0251] Referring to FIG. 18B, the second seal member 920 includes a second seal body 921, a second cover insertion groove 922, and a seal protrusion 923.

[0252] The second seal body 921 is the body of the second seal member 920, and is coupled to the second cover protruding member 320. The second seal body 921 is formed with a second cover insertion groove 922 and a seal protruding portion 923.

[0253] The second cover protruding member 320 is inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922. For example, the second cover protruding member 320 is inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922 by a forced fitting method, and in this case, no gap is generated between the second cover protruding member 320 and the second seal body 921.

[0254] The seal protrusion 923 protrudes toward the second cover insertion groove 922. When the second cover protruding member 320 is inserted into the second cover insertion groove 922, the seal protrusion 923 can be inserted into the seal insertion groove 340 formed on the outer surface 300a of the second cover 300. This securely couples the second cover 300 and the second seal member 920 together. The seal protrusion 923 is formed on each side of the second seal body 921. The seal protrusion 923 may be formed integrally with the second seal body 921.

[0255] Hereinafter, the coupling structure between the second cover 300, the connecting portions 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing portion 900 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0256] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, taken along the line CC' in FIG.

[0257] 19, when the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the passage hole 330, the connecting parts 500a, 630, and 730 are disposed between the first sealing member 910 and the second cover 300. Therefore, even if vibration or shaking acts on the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment, movement of the connecting parts 500a, 630, and 730 can be restricted.

[0258] The assembly process between the second cover 300, the connecting parts 500a, 630, 730 and the sealing part 900 will be described below.

[0259] First, the connectors 500a, 630, and 730 are passed through the through hole 330. The heater connector 500a, the antenna connector 630, and the sensing connector 730 may all be passed through the through hole 330, or the heater connector 500a, the antenna connector 630, and the sensing connector 730 may be passed through the through hole 330 sequentially.

[0260] Here, since the size of the through hole 330 is larger than the size of each of the connection portions 500 a , 630 , and 730 , the connection portions 500 a , 630 , and 730 can easily pass through the through hole 330 .

[0261] Next, the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the passage hole 330. In this case, the heater connection part 500a is inserted into the first passage groove 912, the antenna connection part 630 is located on the inner surface 300b of the second cover 300, and the sensing connection part 730 is inserted into the second passage groove 913.

[0262] If the first sealing member 910 is inserted into the through hole 330 first and then the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 are passed through the through hole 330, the size of the through hole 330 becomes small, making it difficult to pass the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730 through the through hole 330. Therefore, in this case, the assembly process between the second cover 300, the connecting portions 500a, 630, and 730, and the sealing member 900 is not easy.

[0263] However, in one embodiment of the heater assembly 10 for an aerosol generating device, assembly between the second cover 300, the connection parts 500a, 630, 730, and the sealing part 900 is easily performed by first inserting the connection parts 500a, 630, 730 into the through hole 330 and then sequentially inserting the first sealing member 910 into the through hole 330.

[0264] 20 and 21 are diagrams illustrating examples of aerosol products according to one embodiment.

[0265] An example of an aerosol product 2 will now be described with reference to FIGS.

[0266] 20 and 21 are diagrams illustrating examples of aerosol products according to one embodiment.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 20, the aerosol production product 2 comprises a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22 .

[0268] Although the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment in FIG. 20, this is not intended to be limiting. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment that cools the aerosol and a segment that filters specific components contained in the aerosol. Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function, as needed.

[0269] The aerosol-producing article 2 may have a diameter ranging from 5 mm to 9 mm and a length of about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, but not limited to, the tobacco rod 21 may have a length of about 12 mm, the first segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 10 mm, the second segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 14 mm, and the third segment of the filter rod 22 may have a length of about 12 mm.

[0270] The aerosol product 2 is wrapped in at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 has at least one hole through which external air can flow in or internal gas can flow out. In one example, the aerosol product 2 is wrapped in one wrapper 24. In another example, the aerosol product 2 may be wrapped in two or more wrappers 24 stacked one on top of the other. For example, the tobacco rod 21 is wrapped in a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 is wrapped in wrappers 242, 243, and 244. The entire aerosol product 2 may then be repackaged in a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, each segment may be wrapped in a wrapper 242, 243, or 244.

[0271] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 are made of common filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 are porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may also be made of oil-resistant paper and / or aluminum-clad wrapping material.

[0272] The third wrapper 243 may be made of hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is in the range of 88 g / m to 96 g / m, preferably in the range of 90 g / m to 94 g / m. The thickness of the third wrapper 243 is in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, preferably 125 μm.

[0273] The fourth wrapper 244 is made of oil-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 is in the range of 88 g / m to 96 g / m, preferably in the range of 90 g / m to 94 g / m. The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 is in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, preferably 125 μm.

[0274] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 57 g / m to 63 g / m, preferably 60 g / m. The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, preferably 67 μm.

[0275] A predetermined substance is added to the fifth wrapper 245. Examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., resistance to various chemicals), water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0276] The fifth flap 245 prevents the aerosol product 2 from being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 21 is heated by a heater, the aerosol product 2 may be burned. Specifically, if any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 21 is heated above its ignition point, the aerosol product 2 may be burned. Even in such a case, the fifth flap 245 contains a non-flammable substance, preventing the aerosol product 2 from being burned.

[0277] Furthermore, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generation device 1 from being contaminated by the substance generated in the aerosol product 2. A liquid substance is generated in the aerosol product 2 when the user puffs. For example, the aerosol generated in the aerosol product 2 is cooled by external air, generating a liquid substance (e.g., moisture). The fifth wrapper 245 encases the aerosol product 2, thereby preventing the liquid substance generated in the aerosol product 2 from leaking outside the aerosol product 2.

[0278] The tobacco rod 21 includes an aerosol-forming material. For example, the aerosol-forming material may include at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited to these. The tobacco rod 21 may also include other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Flavoring liquids, such as menthol or humectants, may also be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying them onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0279] The tobacco rod 21 may be made in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be made of a sheet or a strand. Alternatively, the tobacco rod 21 may be made of shredded tobacco, which is a tobacco sheet. The tobacco rod 21 may also be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited to this. For example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may uniformly distribute heat transferred to the tobacco rod 21, improving the thermal conductivity of the tobacco rod and thereby improving the tobacco taste. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may also function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include a susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the exterior.

[0280] The filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Meanwhile, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tubular rod with a hollow interior. The filter rod 22 may also be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the multiple segments may be manufactured in a different shape.

[0281] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow interior. The first segment may prevent the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from being pushed outward when a heater is inserted, and may also have a cooling effect on the aerosol. The hollow interior of the first segment may have a diameter ranging from 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0282] The length of the first segment may be within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto, and preferably is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0283] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the amount of plasticizer used during manufacturing. The first segment is manufactured by inserting a film, tube, or other structure made of the same or different material into its interior (e.g., hollow).

[0284] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0285] The length or diameter of the second segment may vary depending on the shape of the aerosol product 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment is 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0286] The second segment is made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a scented liquid may be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second segment may be made by weaving a separate fiber coated with a scented liquid and a polymer fiber together. Alternatively, the second segment is formed by a crimped polymer sheet.

[0287] For example, the polymer is made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0288] The second segment is formed from woven polymer fibers or a crimped polymer sheet, whereby the second segment comprises one or more longitudinally extending channels, where a channel refers to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0289] For example, the second segment of crimped polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, e.g., between about 10 μm and about 250 μm, and the total surface area of ​​the second segment may be between about 300 mm / mm and about 1000 mm / mm, and the aerosol cooling element may be formed from a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm / mg and about 100 mm / mg.

[0290] The second segment includes a thread containing a volatile flavoring component, such as, but not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide the second segment with at least 1.5 mg of menthol.

[0291] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0292] During the manufacturing process of the third segment, the third segment may be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled as it passes through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of improving the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user is achieved.

[0293] The filter rod 22 also includes at least one capsule 23. The capsule 23 may function to generate a flavor or may function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 has a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 23 may be, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0294] 21, the aerosol production product 3 further includes a front end plug 33. The front end plug 33 is located on one side of the tobacco rod 31 opposite the filter rod 32. The front end plug 33 prevents the tobacco rod 31 from detaching to the outside and prevents liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generation device 1 during smoking.

[0295] The filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of the filter rod 22 of FIG. 20, and the second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of the filter rod 22 of FIG. 20.

[0296] The diameter and overall length of the aerosol product 3 correspond to those of the aerosol product 2 in Figure 20. For example, but not limited to, the length of the front end plug 33 is about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 is about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 is about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 is about 14 mm.

[0297] The aerosol product 3 is wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 has at least one hole for allowing outside air to flow in or for allowing internal gas to flow out. For example, the front end plug 33 is wrapped by a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 is wrapped by a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 is wrapped by a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 is wrapped by a fourth wrapper 354. Then, the entire aerosol product 3 may be repackaged by a fifth wrapper 355.

[0298] In addition, at least one perforation 36 is formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, but not limited to, the perforation 36 is formed in the area surrounding the tobacco rod 31. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer heat generated by the heater to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0299] The second segment 322 may also include at least one capsule 34. The capsule 34 may function to generate a flavor or may function to generate an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 has a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enclosed in a coating. The capsule 34 may be, but is not limited to, a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0300] The first wrapper 351 is formed by combining a metal foil, such as aluminum foil, with a typical filter wrapper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 is within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, preferably 50.3 μm. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 is within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, preferably 6.3 μm. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is within the range of 50 g / m2 to 55 g / m2, preferably 53 g / m2.

[0301] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are made of common filter wrapping paper, for example, porous wrapping paper or non-porous wrapping paper.

[0302] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 is 35,000 CU, but is not limited to this. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 is within a range of 70 μm to 80 μm, preferably 78 μm. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is within a range of 20 g / m to 25 g / m, preferably 23.5 g / m.

[0303] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 is 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 is within a range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably 68 μm. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is within a range of 20 g / m to 25 g / m, and preferably 21 g / m.

[0304] The fourth wrapper 354 is made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper refers to a triple layer of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 is in the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, preferably 110 μm. The basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is in the range of 80 g / m to 100 g / m, preferably 88 g / m.

[0305] The fifth wrapper 355 is made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) refers to paper specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is within the range of 57 g / m2 to 63 g / m2, preferably 60 g / m2. The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 is within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, preferably 67 μm.

[0306] A predetermined substance is added to the fifth wrapper 355. Examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance (i.e., small changes due to temperature), oxidation resistance (i.e., resistance to various chemicals), water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon that has the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0307] The front end plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the front end plug 33 is made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow is within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 is 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the front end plug 33 is also Y-shaped. The total denier of the front end plug 33 is within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the front end plug 33 is 28,000.

[0308] If desired, the front end plug 33 may also include at least one channel, the cross-sectional shape of which may be varied.

[0309] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 20. Therefore, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0310] The first segment 321 is made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment is a hollow, tubular structure. The first segment 321 is made from cellulose acetate tow with a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin). For example, the monodenier and total denier of the first segment 321 are the same as those of the front end plug 33.

[0311] The second segment 322 is made of cellulose acetate. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 is within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 is 9.0. The cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 is Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 is within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably 25,000.

[0312] FIG. 22 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0313] The aerosol generation device 1 includes a control unit 1000, a sensing unit 2000, an output unit 3000, a battery 4000, a heater 5000, a user input unit 6000, a memory 7000, and a communication unit 8000. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 1 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 21. That is, a person skilled in the art would understand that some of the components shown in Fig. 21 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0314] The sensing unit 2000 senses the state of the aerosol generation device 1 or the state around the aerosol generation device 1, and transmits the sensed information to the control unit 1000. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 1000 controls the aerosol generation device 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 5000, restricting smoking, determining whether or not to insert an aerosol product (e.g., cigarette, cartridge, etc.), and displaying notifications.

[0315] The sensing unit 2000 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 2100, an insertion sensor 2200, and a puff sensor 2300, but is not limited thereto.

[0316] The temperature sensor 2100 senses the temperature to which the heater 5000 (or the aerosol-generating substance) is heated. The aerosol-generating device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the heater 5000, or the heater 5000 itself may function as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 2100 may be disposed around the battery 4000 so as to monitor the temperature of the battery 4000.

[0317] The insertion detection sensor 2200 detects the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product. For example, the insertion detection sensor 2200 may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and detects a change in signal due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol product.

[0318] The puff sensor 2300 detects a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or channel, such as a temperature change, a flow rate change, a voltage change, or a pressure change.

[0319] The sensing unit 2000 further includes at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor in addition to the above-described sensors 2100 to 2300. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a skilled artisan from its name, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0320] The output unit 3000 outputs and provides to a user information about the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 3000 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a display unit 3100, a haptic unit 3200, and an audio output unit 3300. When the display unit 3100 and a touchpad are layered to form a touch screen, the display unit 3100 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0321] The display unit 3100 visually provides a user with information about the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generation device 1 refers to various information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 4000 of the aerosol generation device 1, the preheating status of the heater 5000, the insertion / removal status of an aerosol product, or a status that restricts the use of the aerosol generation device 1 (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the display unit 3100 outputs the information to the outside. The display unit 3100 is, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), etc. The display unit 3100 may also be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0322] The haptic unit 3200 converts an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus to tactilely provide the user with information about the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the haptic unit 3200 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0323] The acoustic output unit 3300 audibly provides the user with information about the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 3300 converts an electric signal into an acoustic signal and outputs it to the outside.

[0324] The battery 4000 supplies power used to operate the aerosol generation device 1. The battery 4000 supplies power to heat the heater 5000. The battery 4000 also supplies power necessary for the operation of other components provided within the aerosol generation device 1 (e.g., the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000). The battery 4000 is a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 4000 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0325] The heater 5000 receives power from the battery 4000 and heats the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Fig. 22, the aerosol generation device 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 4000 and supplies it to the heater 5000. Furthermore, when the aerosol generation device 1 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generation device 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 4000 into AC power supply.

[0326] The control unit 1000, the sensing unit 2000, the output unit 3000, the user input unit 6000, the memory 7000, and the communication unit 8000 perform their functions by receiving power from the battery 4000. Although not shown in FIG. 22 , a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, may be further included to convert the power of the battery 4000 and supply it to each component.

[0327] In one embodiment, the heater 5000 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Additionally, the heater 5000 may be embodied as, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate having conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0328] In another embodiment, heater 5000 is an induction heater, for example, heater 5000 includes a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0329] The user input unit 6000 receives information input by a user or outputs information to a user. For example, the user input unit 6000 may be, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (such as a contact-type capacitance type, a pressure-type resistive film type, an infrared sensing type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integral tension measurement type, or a piezoelectric effect type), a jog wheel, or a jog switch. Although not shown in FIG. 21 , the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, through which the aerosol generating device 1 can connect to other external devices to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 4000.

[0330] The memory 7000 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generation device 1, and stores data that has been processed by the control unit 1000 and data to be processed by the control unit 1000. The memory 7000 includes at least one type of recording medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The memory 7000 stores the operating time of the aerosol generation device 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0331] The communication unit 8000 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 8000 includes a short-range communication unit 8100 and a wireless communication unit 8200.

[0332] The short-range communication unit 8100 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a short-range wireless communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0333] The wireless communication unit 8200 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 8200 can identify and authenticate the aerosol generation device 1 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)).

[0334] The control unit 1000 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 1000 includes at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executed by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the processor may also be implemented as other types of hardware.

[0335] The control unit 1000 controls the temperature of the heater 5000 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 4000 to the heater 5000. For example, the control unit 1000 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 4000 and the heater 5000. In another example, a heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 5000 in response to a control command from the control unit 1000.

[0336] The control unit 1000 analyzes the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000 and controls subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 1000 controls the power supplied to the heater 5000 so that the operation of the heater 5000 starts or ends based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000. As another example, the control unit 1000 controls the amount of power supplied to the heater 5000 and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater 5000 can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 2000.

[0337] The control unit 1000 controls the output unit 3000 based on the result sensed by the sensing unit 2000. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 2300 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 1000 can notify the user through at least one of the display unit 3100, the haptic unit 3200, and the audio output unit 3300 that the aerosol generating device 1 will soon end.

[0338] An embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as a program module executed by a computer. Computer-readable media are any available media accessible by a computer, including both volatile and nonvolatile media, and detachable and non-detachable media. Computer-readable media also include both computer recording media and communication media. Computer recording media include both volatile and non-volatile, detachable and non-detachable media embodied in any method or technology for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, or other transmission mechanism, and include any information delivery media.

[0339] The above description of the embodiments is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention should be determined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope of the claims should be construed as being included in the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. a body including a storage space for storing an aerosol-producing article; a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insert into which the aerosol-producing article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol-producing article contained in the containing space; a heater disposed between the inner surface and the outer surface of the support unit, the heater applying a magnetic field to a susceptor disposed in the storage space to heat the aerosol product; A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device, wherein the heater is positioned so as to completely overlap the support unit with respect to a second direction that is transverse to the first direction in which the support unit extends.

2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the support unit and the heater are formed by insert injection.

3. 2. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device as described in claim 1, wherein the heater has a cross-sectional area extending in the first direction when cut based on a plane passing through the first direction in which the support unit extends and the second direction transverse to the first direction.

4. 4. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the frequency of the magnetic field applied to the susceptor is 5 MHz or higher.

5. 2. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device as described in claim 1, wherein the spacing between adjacent portions of the heater arranged on a first side of the support unit is different from the spacing between adjacent portions of the heater arranged on a second side of the support unit.

6. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the heater includes a first heater and a second heater disposed at different portions of the support unit.

7. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising a sensing unit supported by the support unit inside the body and configured to sense the temperature of at least one of the support unit and the heater.

8. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 7 , further comprising a sensing connection unit having a metal material and disposed at a portion where the support unit and the sensing unit are connected.

9. 2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the first cover further includes a cover insulating member extending along an extension direction of the heater and disposed between the heater and the body.

10. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 9 , wherein when the first cover is coupled to the body, the cover insulating member is inserted inside the body and surrounds a part of the outer surface of the heater.

11. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device as described in claim 1, further comprising an antenna arranged inside the body so as to surround at least a portion of the exterior of the heater and which recognizes whether the aerosol product has been placed in the storage space.

12. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 11 , further comprising a shielding unit disposed between the antenna and the body so as to surround at least a portion of the outside of the antenna.

13. a second cover coupled to the body to form the receiving space together with the body and the first cover; 2. The heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising: a seal portion inserted into a passage hole formed in the second cover to seal the passage hole.

14. a body including a storage space for storing an aerosol-producing article; a first cover coupled to the body and having an article insert into which the aerosol-producing article is inserted; a support unit disposed inside the body and the first cover and surrounding the aerosol-producing article contained in the containing space; a heater that protrudes from the inner surface of the support unit toward the storage space and applies a magnetic field to a susceptor disposed in the storage space to heat the aerosol product, the heater assembly for an aerosol generating device comprising:

15. A heater assembly for an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; a battery for providing power to a heater assembly for the aerosol generating device; a control unit that controls the operation of the heater assembly for the aerosol generating device.

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