Aerosol generating device including a surface plasmon resonance heater and device for manufacturing a surface plasmon resonance heater

Abstract

The heater includes a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface including a curved surface, the substrate defining a cavity within the first surface; an SPR structure configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance (SPR), the SPR structure being disposed on the first surface; and an opening configured to allow light to pass into the cavity, the opening being defined by the first surface.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device including a surface plasmon resonance heater. The disclosure also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a surface plasmon resonance heater. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to realize atomization performance, technologies for injecting airflow into an aerosol-generating article have been developed. For example, aerosol generators that generate aerosols from aerosol-generating articles using a non-combustion method have been developed. The background art described above is held or learned in the process of deriving this disclosure, but it is not necessarily publicly known art that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a heater that improves light utilization efficiency and ensures thermal stability, and an aerosol generating device including the heater. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an improved device for manufacturing an SPR heater with a complex structure. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The aerosol-generating device may include a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article, the heater comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface including a curved surface, the substrate defining a cavity on the first surface; a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure configured to generate heat by SPR, the SPR structure disposed on the first surface; and an opening configured to allow light to pass into the cavity, the opening defined by the first surface.

[0005] The first region of the first surface may at least partially face another second region of the first surface.

[0006] The first surface may have a substantially constant curvature.

[0007] The heater may include an absorber layer disposed on the second surface and configured to absorb light transmitted through the substrate.

[0008] The heater may include a reflective layer disposed on the second surface and configured to reflect light transmitted through the substrate.

[0009] The heater may include a heat transfer body disposed on the second surface and configured to transfer generated heat.

[0010] The heat transfer element can include a first material having a first thermal property and a second material having a second thermal property different from the first thermal property.

[0011] The SPR structure can include a void region and a plurality of prism regions that define the void region and are arranged in a circumferential direction of the void region.

[0012] The SPR structure can include a void area and a metal prism defining the void area and extending along the entire periphery of the void area.

[0013] The SPR structure can include a plurality of randomly sized metal particles.

[0014] The aerosol generating device may include an optical fiber coupled to the opening.

[0015] The aerosol-generating device may include a wick configured to carry the aerosol-generating material, the wick being thermally coupled to the SPR structure.

[0016] The aerosol generating device may include a cartridge containing the aerosol-generating substance, and the cartridge may include a hole facing the opening.

[0017] The aerosol generating device may include a light source configured to generate light.

[0018] According to one embodiment, an apparatus for manufacturing a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heater is disclosed. The SPR heater includes a substrate. The substrate has a closed first end, an open second end opposite the first end, an inner side surface between the first end and the second end, and a hollow portion defined by the inner end surface of the first end and the inner side surface. The apparatus includes a holder configured to support the substrate, a target positioned facing the holder, and an evaporator configured to generate a first deposition material from the target and deposit the first deposition material on the inner end surface and the inner side surface of the first end.

[0019] The vaporizer can be deposited over the entire interior side surface between the first end and the second end, and over the entire interior end surface.

[0020] The vaporizer can accelerate electrons towards the target.

[0021] The evaporator can include a power source and a cathode electrically connected to the power source.

[0022] The apparatus can include a magnetic field generator configured to generate a magnetic field between the vaporizer and the target.

[0023] The first deposition material may include metal particles.

[0024] The evaporator is configured to generate a second evaporation material different from the first evaporation material, and can evaporate the second evaporation material onto the inner end surface and the inner side surface of the first end portion.

[0025] The evaporator can deposit the second evaporation material before depositing the first evaporation material.

[0026] The second deposition material may include carbon black.

[0027] The holder may be configured to heat the substrate.

[0028] The apparatus can include a chamber configured to accommodate the holder and the target.

[0029] The apparatus can include a vacuum pump coupled to the chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0030] According to one embodiment, the rate at which light (e.g., laser) escapes can be reduced. According to one embodiment, thermal stability can be ensured. According to one embodiment, an SPR heater having a complex structure (e.g., a hollow cylindrical structure) can be easily manufactured. The effects of the heater and the aerosol generating device including the heater according to one embodiment are not limited to those 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]

[0031] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of particular embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] [Figure 3] FIG. 10 shows an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.

[0036] [Figure 5] 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a main body and a cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.

[0037] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] [Figure 9] 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a first container and a second container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.

[0041] [Figure 10] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first container and a second container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG.

[0042] [Figure 11]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an airflow channel of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heater according to an embodiment.

[0044] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the heater in FIG. 12.

[0045] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a portion of the heater of FIG. 13.

[0046] [Figure 15] 15 is a cross-sectional view of the heater taken along line 15-15 in FIG. 14.

[0047] [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a portion of a heater according to an embodiment.

[0048] [Figure 17] 1 illustrates a method for manufacturing a heater according to one embodiment, in which a plurality of metal particles are deposited on a substrate. [Figure 18] 17 shows an annealing step being performed on the structure of FIG. 17 to illustrate a method for fabricating a heater according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] As a diagram illustrating a method for manufacturing a heater according to an embodiment, a heater manufactured by the annealing step of FIG. 18 is shown.

[0049] [Figure 20] 1 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. FIG.

[0050] [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a heater in the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0051] [Figure 22]22 is a cross-sectional view of the heater of FIG. 21 taken along line 22-22.

[0052] [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of part A in FIG. 22.

[0053] [Figure 24] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0054] [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a portion of an SPR heater of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0055] [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an apparatus for manufacturing an SPR heater of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the drawing number, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0057] The suffixes "module" and "section" used in the following description for components are given or mixed together solely for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have any meaning or role that is distinct from each other in itself.

[0058] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of related publicly known technology is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, the detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and should not be construed as limiting the technical ideas disclosed herein by the attached drawings, but should be understood as including all modifications, equivalents, or alternatives included within the ideas and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0059] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. are used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0060] When a component is described as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component is directly connected to the other component or is connected to the other component, but that there may be other components between them. On the other hand, when a component is described as being "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components between them.

[0061] Any expression in the singular form includes any expression in the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0062] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] The aerosol generator 1 includes a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 1. That is, it is understandable to a person skilled in the art of this embodiment that some of the components shown in Fig. 1 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0064] The sensor 13 detects the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the environment surrounding the aerosol generator 1, and transmits the detected information to the control unit 12. Based on the detected information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether the stick S and / or cartridge 19 is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

[0065] The sensors 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 131 , a puff sensor 132 , an insertion detection sensor 133 , a reuse detection sensor 134 , a cartridge detection sensor 135 , a cap detection sensor 136 , and a motion detection sensor 137 .

[0066] The temperature sensor 131 detects the temperature to which the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generation device 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 themselves may function as the temperature sensor.

[0067] The temperature sensor 131 outputs a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance value changes in response to a change in temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 may be implemented by a thermistor, which is an element that utilizes the property of changing resistance depending on temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured with a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Here, the temperature sensor 131 may output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0068] Temperature sensor 131 may be disposed around power supply 11 to monitor the temperature of power supply 11. Temperature sensor 131 may be disposed adjacent to power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery of power supply 11. For example, temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0069] The temperature sensor 131 is disposed inside the main body 10 and can detect the internal temperature of the main body 10 .

[0070] The puff sensor 132 detects a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 outputs a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generation device 1 corresponds to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be arranged in the aerosol generation device 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0071] The insertion detection sensor 133 detects the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion detection sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion detection sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S in response to a change in the dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion detection sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitive sensor.

[0072] The inductive sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. For example, when a magnetic field changes around a coil through which a current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may include the frequency, current value, voltage value, inductance value, impedance value, etc. of the alternating current.

[0073] The inductive sensor outputs a signal corresponding to a characteristic of the current flowing through the coil. For example, the inductive sensor may output a signal corresponding to the inductance value of the coil.

[0074] The capacitive sensor includes a conductor. The conductor of the capacitive sensor may be disposed adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitive sensor may output a signal corresponding to a surrounding electromagnetic characteristic, e.g., the capacitance of the conductor. For example, when a stick S with a metallic wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the stick S may change the electromagnetic characteristic of the conductor.

[0075] The reuse detection sensor 134 detects whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be a color sensor. The color sensor detects the color of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the color of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the exterior of the stick S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the color of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be realized as a single component together with the proximity sensor, or may be realized as a separate component separate from the proximity sensor.

[0076] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S may change color due to the aerosol. The reuse detection sensor 134 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the position where at least a portion of the wrapper that changes color due to the aerosol is disposed when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by a user, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may be a first color. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing the color of at least a portion of the wrapper to change to a second color. Meanwhile, after the color of at least a portion of the wrapper has changed from the first color to the second color, the color of at least a portion of the wrapper may remain the second color.

[0077] The cartridge detection sensor 135 can detect the installation and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge detection sensor 135 may be realized by an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance-type sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor (hall IC) using the Hall effect, or the like.

[0078] The cap detection sensor 136 detects the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the main body 10, the cartridge 19 and a part of the main body 10 that were covered by the cap are exposed to the outside. The cap detection sensor 136 may be realized by a contact sensor, a hall sensor (hall IC), an optical sensor, etc.

[0079] The motion detection sensor 137 detects the motion of the aerosol generation device 1. The motion detection sensor 137 may be realized by at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0080] The sensor 13 may further include at least one of a humidity sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor in addition to the above-described sensors 131 to 137. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation may be omitted.

[0081] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 1. The output unit 14 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a display 141, a haptic unit 142, and an audio output unit 143. When the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure to form a touch screen, the display 141 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0082] The display 141 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 1 can mean various information such as the charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generating device 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the attachment / removal status of a cap, or a status that restricts the use of the aerosol generating device 1 (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the display 141 can output the information to the outside. For example, the display 141 can be an LED light-emitting diode (LED) panel. For example, the display 141 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0083] The haptic unit 142 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and provide a user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate a vibration corresponding to the completion of initial preheating when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 for a set time. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0084] The acoustic output unit 143 can audibly provide the user with information relating to the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 may convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0085] The power supply 11 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generating device 1. The power supply 11 can supply power to heat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The power supply 11 also supplies power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generating device 1, such as the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be a lithium polymer battery (depending on predetermined conditions), but is not limited to this.

[0086] 1, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit may be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0087] The power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 according to a predetermined condition. For example, the power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is equal to or higher than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power supply protection circuit can cut off the electrical path to the power supply 11 when the voltage level of the power supply 11 is lower than a second voltage corresponding to overdischarging.

[0088] The heater 18 receives power from the power supply 11 and heats the medium or aerosol-generating substance in the stick S. Although not shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosol using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the power supply 11 into AC power.

[0089] The control unit 12, the sensor 13, the output unit 14, the input unit 15, the communication unit 16, and the memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the power supply 11 may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to each component. Although not shown in FIG. 10, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter includes at least one inductor and at least one capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter corresponds to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter can prevent high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensors 13, such as the insertion detection sensor 133.

[0090] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 may be formed from any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Additionally, the heater 18 may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate having an electrically conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heater, etc.

[0091] In other embodiments, heater 18 may be an induction heater. For example, heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0092] The input unit 15 receives information input by a user and outputs information to a user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects a touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, etc.

[0093] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by one panel. For example, the touch panel may be inserted (on-cell type or in-cell type) into the display 141. For example, the touch panel may be an add-on type on the display 141.

[0094] Meanwhile, the input unit 15 includes, but is not limited to, a button, a keypad, a dome switch, a jog wheel, a jog switch, and the like.

[0095] The memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data that has been processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. The memory 17 may include at least one type of storage medium selected from the group consisting of flash memory, hard disk, micro multimedia card, 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 17 may store the operating time of the aerosol generator 1, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0096] The communication unit 16 includes at least one component for communicating with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0097] The short-range wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an IrDA (Infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (Ultra Wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0098] The wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (eg, LAN or WAN) communication unit, and the like.

[0099] Although not shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via the connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0100] The control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor may be realized as an array of multiple logic gates, or 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 controller 12 may also be realized in other forms of hardware.

[0101] The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the supply of power from the power source 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 controls the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 detected by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 adjusts the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 may determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0102] The aerosol generating device 1 includes a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, the heater 18, or an induction coil (not shown). The power supply circuit includes at least one switching element. The switching element may be realized by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0103] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter may be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit including a plurality of switching elements.

[0104] The control unit 12 may turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. The control unit 12 may turn off the switching element so that power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 is cut off. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and / or duty ratio of the current pulse input to the switching element to adjust the current supplied by the power supply 11.

[0105] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit converts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that boosts the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit is realized using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0106] The control unit 12 controls the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit to adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching element is kept on, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit corresponds to the level of the voltage output from the power source 11. The duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element corresponds to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power source 11. As the duty ratio of the on / off operation of the switching element decreases, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit decreases. The heater 18 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0107] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0108] For example, the control unit 12 may use a PWM method to control current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to be supplied to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the heater 18.

[0109] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the heater 18 and the target temperature, the value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and the value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0110] The control unit 12 prevents the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 may control the operation of the power conversion circuit to interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a certain rate when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a preset limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 may determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been consumed when the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, and may interrupt the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24.

[0111] The control unit 12 controls the charging / discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0112] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than a first limit temperature, which is a criterion for cutting off charging of the power source 11. When the temperature of the power source 11 is lower than the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power source 11 to be charged based on a preset charging current. When the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than the first limit temperature, the control unit 12 can cut off charging of the power source 11.

[0113] When the aerosol generator 1 is powered on, the control unit 12 checks whether the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than a second limit temperature, which is a criterion for cutting off the discharge of the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is lower than the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 controls the power source 11 to use the power stored in the power source 11. If the temperature of the power source 11 is equal to or higher than the second limit temperature, the control unit 12 can stop the use of the power stored in the power source 11.

[0114] The control unit 12 calculates the remaining capacity of the power stored in the power source 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power source 11 based on the detected voltage and / or current value of the power source 11.

[0115] The control unit 12 determines whether or not the stick S is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal of the insertion detection sensor 133. If it determines that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 controls the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 may supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0116] The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space via the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space when the temperature of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than a limit temperature, or when the slope of the temperature change of the heater 18 is equal to or higher than a set slope. When it is determined that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0117] The control unit 12 controls the time and / or amount of power supply to the heater 18 according to the state of the stick S detected by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the signal from the capacitance sensor based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0118] When the stick S is in an overly humid state, the control unit 12 controls the time for which power is supplied to the heater 18, and can increase the preheating time of the stick S compared to when the stick S is in a normal state.

[0119] The control unit 12 determines whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space can be reused via the reuse detection sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detection value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor 134 with a first reference range that includes a first color, and determines that the stick S has not been used if the detection value is within the first reference range. For example, the control unit 12 compares the detection value of the signal of the reuse detection sensor 134 with a second reference range that includes a second color, and determines that the stick S has been used if the detection value is within the second reference range. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0120] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be connected and / or removed via the cartridge detection sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 can be connected and / or removed based on the detection value of the signal of the cartridge detection sensor 135.

[0121] The control unit 12 determines whether the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has decreased. For example, the control unit 12 applies power to preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18, determines whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period, and determines that the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has been consumed if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature. If it determines that the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 19 has been consumed, the control unit 12 may cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0122] The control unit 12 determines whether the cartridge 19 is usable. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the current number of puffs is equal to or greater than the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19 based on data stored in the memory 17. For example, the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 is unusable if the total time that the heater 24 has been heated is equal to or greater than a preset maximum time or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is equal to or greater than a preset maximum amount of power.

[0123] The control unit 12 can make a determination regarding the user's inhalation via the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the detected value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the strength of the puff based on the detected value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a preset maximum number of puffs, or if no puffs are detected for a preset time or longer, the control unit 12 can cut off the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18.

[0124] The control unit 12 determines whether the cap is attached and / or removed via the cap detection sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the detection value of the signal of the cap detection sensor 136.

[0125] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a preset number, the control unit 12 can notify the user via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the audio output unit 143 that the aerosol generating device 1 will soon be shut down. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the stick S is not present in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 may notify the user via the output unit 14 based on a determination that the cartridge 19 and / or cap are not attached. For example, the control unit 12 may communicate information regarding the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or the heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0126] The control unit 12 stores and updates a history of events that have occurred in the memory 17 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. The events may include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detection of insertion of the stick S, start of heating of the stick S, detection of puffing, end of puffing, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, end of heating of the stick S, operations such as turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, start of charging the power supply 11, detection of overcharging of the power supply 11, and end of charging the power supply 11. The history of the event may include the date and time when the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if the predetermined event is detection of insertion of the stick S, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the detection value of the insertion detection sensor 133, etc. For example, if a given event is the detection of overheating of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data on the temperature of cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the current flowing through cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, etc.

[0127] The control unit 12 controls the establishment of a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication-related data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the authentication-related data may include data indicating completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user may perform user authentication via the external device. The external device determines whether user data is valid based on the user's birthday, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and receives data regarding usage authorization for the aerosol generating device 1 from an external server. The external device transmits data indicating completion of user authentication to the aerosol generating device 1 based on the data regarding usage authorization. Upon completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generating device 1. For example, upon completion of user authentication, the control unit 12 may remove restrictions on the use of a heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0128] The control unit 12 transmits data on the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, etc., via a display of the external device.

[0129] The external device can send a location search request to the aerosol generation device 1 based on an input initiating a location search of the aerosol generation device 1. When receiving a location search request from an external device, the control unit 12 can control at least one of the output devices to perform an operation corresponding to the location search based on the received location search request. For example, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output objects corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0130] When the control unit 12 receives firmware data from an external device, it controls to perform a firmware update. The external device can check the current version of the firmware of the aerosol generation device 1 and determine whether a new version of the firmware exists. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it receives firmware data of the new version and transmits the firmware data of the new version to the aerosol generation device 1. By receiving the firmware data of the new version, the control unit 12 can control to perform a firmware update of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0131] The control unit 12 transmits data on the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16 and receives and stores a learning model generated by learning the detection values ​​through machine learning, such as deep learning, from the external server. The control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining a user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile using the learning model received from the external server. The control unit 12 stores the detection value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 may store a database for each component provided in the aerosol generating device 1, weights and biases for the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, and other information for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data on the detection values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, and other information stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining a user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, and so on.

[0132] 2 and 3 are diagrams showing an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0133] 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a main body 10 and a cartridge 19. The aerosol generating device 1 includes at least one of a power source 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the power source 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be disposed inside the main body 10. A cartridge 19, which is an aerosol producing product, is attached to the main body 10. A user can inhale the aerosol by biting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge 19.

[0134] Cartridge 19 can contain an aerosol-forming material in an internal chamber C0, which may be in any state, such as a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state. The aerosol-forming material may include a liquid composition, such as a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco aroma components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0135] The cartridge 19 may be detachably coupled to the main body 10. The cartridge 19 may be attached to the main body 10 by being inserted into the main body 10.

[0136] The main body 10 may be configured to allow outside air to flow into the main body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. In this case, the outside air flowing into the main body 10 may pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's oral cavity via the airflow channel CN.

[0137] The cartridge 19 includes a chamber C0 containing an aerosol-generating material and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating material in the chamber C0. A liquid transfer means 25 impregnated with (containing) the aerosol-generating material is disposed inside the chamber C0. The liquid transfer means 25 may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in a coil-shaped structure that wraps around the liquid transfer means 25 or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means 25. The heater 24 is referred to as a cartridge heater.

[0138] The cartridge 19 generates an aerosol. The aerosol is generated by heating the liquid transfer means 25 with the cartridge heater 24. The generated aerosol is inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel CN.

[0139] The airflow channel CN ​​is provided in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel CN ​​can communicate with the chamber C1 (see FIG. 3) of the cartridge 19 in which the heater 24 is disposed and the outside of the cartridge 19. One end of the airflow channel CN ​​may open to the chamber C1 in which the heater 24 is disposed, and the other end may communicate with the mouthpiece 35. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the airflow channel CN ​​may extend long along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19 on one side of the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19. For example, referring to FIG. 3, the airflow channel CN ​​may penetrate the chamber C0 of the cartridge 19 and extend long along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19.

[0140] The power supply 11 supplies power to operate the components of the aerosol generating device 1. The power supply 11 is referred to as a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the cartridge heater 24.

[0141] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 1. The control unit 12 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The control unit 12 may control the operation of at least one of the power supply 11, the sensor 13, and the cartridge 19. The control unit 12 controls the operation of the display, motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generation device 1. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generation device 1 and determine whether the aerosol generation device 1 is in an operable state.

[0142] The control unit 12 can analyze the results detected by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 12 may control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 so as to start or stop the operation of the cartridge heater 24 based on the results detected by the sensor 13. For example, the control unit 12 may control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and the time for which the power is supplied based on the results detected by the sensor 13 so that the cartridge heater 24 can heat up to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0143] The sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a movement detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of the cartridge heater 24, the temperature of the power source 11, and the internal / external temperature of the main body 10. For example, the sensor 13 may detect a puff by the user. For example, the sensor 13 may detect whether the cartridge 19 is attached or not. For example, the sensor 13 may detect movement of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0144] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] 4, an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main body 10 and a cartridge 19. The cartridge 19 includes a first container 20 and a second container 30. The cartridge 19 may be coupled to the main body 10.

[0146] The main body 10 houses a power source 11 and a control unit 12. The power source 11 supplies the power required for the operation of the configuration. The power source 11 is named, for example, a battery 11. The control unit 12 can control the operation of the configuration.

[0147] The first container 20 may provide a first chamber C1 therein. The first container 20 includes a wick 25. The wick 25 may be disposed in the first chamber C1. An upper portion of the wick 25 may protrude from the first chamber C1 upward to the first container 20.

[0148] The first container 20 includes a heater 2531. The heater 2531 may be disposed in the first chamber C1. The heater 2531 may heat the wick 25. The heater 2531 may be attached to the wick 25. The first container 20 may include a terminal 223 therein. The terminal 223 may be exposed at the bottom of the first container 20. The terminal 223 is electrically connected to the heater 2531. The first container 20 may be named a lower container 20 or a heating module 20.

[0149] The first container 20 has a first air inlet 241 formed by opening the first chamber C1. The first container 20 has a first air outlet 242 formed by opening the first chamber C1.

[0150] The second container 30 provides a second chamber C2 therein. The second container 30 may store a liquid in the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may include an airflow discharge passage 340. Both ends 341, 342 of the airflow discharge passage 340 may be open. The airflow discharge passage 340 is separated from the second chamber C2. The second container 30 may be named an upper container 30 or a liquid phase storage section 30.

[0151] The mouthpiece 35 may be coupled to the upper side of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 may cover the top of the second container 30. The mouthpiece 35 may have a second airflow outlet 354 therein. The second airflow outlet 354 may be in communication with the other end 342 of the airflow exhaust channel 340.

[0152] The first container 20 may be coupled to the main body 10. The first container 20 may be inserted into the main body 10. When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the heater 2531 may be electrically connected to the power source 11 via the terminal 223. The heater 2531 generates heat when power is supplied from the power source 11. The heater 2531 may be a resistive heater.

[0153] The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The second container 30 being coupled to the first container 20 includes the second container 30 being directly coupled to the first container 20 and the second container 30 being indirectly coupled to the first container 20 by being coupled to the main body 10.

[0154] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply the stored liquid to the wick 25. The wick 25 absorbs the liquid supplied from the second container 30. The heater 2531 can heat the wick 25 that has absorbed the liquid to generate an aerosol in the first chamber C1.

[0155] The main body 10 is open on one side and has a second air inlet 141. When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the first air inlet 241 is connected to the second air inlet 141. When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, one end 341 of the air discharge passage 340 is connected to the first air outlet 242. This allows for the formation of a passage through which air flows. A user inhales air by biting the mouthpiece 35. When the user inhales, outside air passes through the second air inlet 141, the first air inlet 241, the first chamber C1, the first air outlet 242, the air discharge passage 340, and the second air outlet 354 in this order, and is then provided to the user. The air flows together with the aerosol generated in the first chamber C1.

[0156] Therefore, the first container 20 and the second container 30 can be replaced independently. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20 are different, and a user may replace only the second container 30 separately, or only the first container 20 separately. For example, the consumption cycle of the liquid stored in the second container 30 may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of the first container 20, and while the second container 30 is replaced several times, the first container 20 may be replaced only once. This allows the first container 20 to be used for a longer period of time, and reduces the cost of replacing cartridges.

[0157] FIG. 5 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the main body and cartridge of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0158] 5, the first container 20 is detachably coupled to the main body 10. A first coupler 151 may detachably couple the first container 20 and the main body 10. For example, the first coupler 151 includes a hook groove 225 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 225. The hook 125 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone, and may provide a seal between the main body and the first container 20 around the second air inlet 141. As another example, the first coupler 151 may couple the first container 20 and the main body 10 using magnetic force.

[0159] The second container 30 can be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20. The second container 30 may be coupled to the main body 10 and thereby indirectly coupled to the first container 20. The second coupler 152 can detachably couple the second container 30 to the main body 10. For example, the second coupler 152 may include a hook groove 325 and a hook 125 detachably fastened to the hook groove 325. As another example, the second coupler 152 may couple the second container 30 to the main body 10 by magnetic force.

[0160] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] 6, the first container 20 includes a case 21, a wick 25, and a heater 2531 (see FIG. 7). The case 21 includes a first case 22 and a second case 23.

[0162] The second case 23 may be coupled to the upper side of the first case 22. The first case 22 is open on the upper side and has a space 224 that forms the first chamber C1. The second case 23 is open on the lower side and has a space 234 that forms the first chamber C1. The first case 22 and the second case 23 may be coupled vertically to form the first chamber C1 therebetween.

[0163] The terminals 223 may be fixed to the bottom of the first case 22 and exposed at the bottom of the first case 22. The terminals 223 may protrude upward from the first case 22 toward the first chamber C1. The terminals 223 may be provided in pairs spaced apart horizontally from each other.

[0164] The first air inlet 241 may be formed in the bottom of the first case 22. A plurality of first air inlets 241 may be formed to form a multi-hole shape. The first air inlet 241 is horizontally spaced apart from the terminal 223. The first air inlet 241 may be formed by opening a lateral wall of the first case 22 and / or a lateral wall of the second case 23.

[0165] The case 21 may have one configuration of the first coupler 151. For example, the hook groove 225 may be formed by recessing the lower periphery of the first case 22. As another example, the hook 125 may be formed by protruding the lower periphery of the first case 22. As another example, the first case 21 may include a magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

[0166] The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed in an upper wall of the second case 23. As another example, the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed in a side wall of the second case 23. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed at a position opposite the first airflow inlet 241.

[0167] The liquid inlet 235 may be formed in the upper wall of the second case 23. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on an upper side of the first chamber C1. The liquid inlet 235 may be separated from the second air outlet 242. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on one side of the upper wall of the second case 23, and the second air outlet 242 may be formed on the other side of the upper wall of the second case 23. The liquid inlet 235 may be formed on a side corresponding to the terminal 223 and the supporter 227, and the first air outlet 242 may be formed on a side corresponding to the first air inlet 241.

[0168] The wick 25 includes a first wick part 251 and a second wick part 252. The first wick part 251 may be disposed in a first chamber C1 between the first case 22 and the second case 23. The lower end of the first wick part 252 is supported by a supporter 227.

[0169] The second wick part 252 may protrude upward from the first wick part 251. The second wick part 252 may be exposed to the outside of the first chamber C1 through the liquid inlet 235. The second wick part 252 may protrude upward through the liquid inlet 235 and the first wick sealing portion 265.

[0170] 7, the heater 2531 may be coupled to the first wick part 251. The heater 2531 heats the first wick part 251. First terminals 2533 formed on both ends of the heater 2531 contact the second terminals 223, and the heater 2531 and the second terminals 223 can be electrically connected to each other.

[0171] The supporter 227 may protrude upward from the bottom of the first case 22. The supporter 227 may be formed around the terminal 223. A plurality of the supporters 227 may be provided and arranged around the terminal 223. The supporter 227 includes a first supporter 227a and a second supporter 227b. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b may be disposed in regions corresponding to the lower corners of the first wick part 251.

[0172] The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b may be spaced apart from each other. The second supporter 227b may be formed adjacent to the first air inlet 242. The second supporter 227b may be formed between the terminal 223 and the first air inlet 241. The second supporters 227b may be formed in pairs. The pair of second supporters 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a first gap 227c therebetween. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b may be spaced apart from each other to form a second gap 227d therebetween.

[0173] The sealer 26 may be attached to the upper side of the first container 20. A sealing plate 261 of the sealer 26 may cover the upper surface of the case 21. The sealer 26 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealer 26 may be made of rubber or a silicone material.

[0174] The sealer 26 includes a first wick sealing portion 265. The first wick sealing portion 265 may be located at a position corresponding to the liquid inlet 235 and may be formed by opening the sealing plate 261. The first wick sealing portion 265 forms one inner peripheral surface of the sealing plate 261. The first wick sealing portion 265 may have a shape corresponding to the peripheral surface 235a surrounding the liquid inlet 235. The first wick sealing portion 265 protrudes downward from the sealing plate 261 and is in close contact with the inside of the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The second wick part 252 protrudes above the liquid inlet 235, passing through the first wick sealing portion 265.

[0175] The sealer 26 includes a second wick sealing portion 262. The second wick sealing portion 262 may protrude downward from the lower surface of the sealing plate 261. The second wick sealing portion 262 may be formed below the first wick sealing portion 265 or below the periphery of the first wick sealing portion 265. The second wick sealing portion 262 extends along the periphery of the first wick sealing portion 265.

[0176] The sealer 26 includes sealing walls 266 and 267 protruding upward from the upper surface of the sealing plate 261. The sealing walls 266 and 267 surround the periphery of the liquid inlet 235 and the first wick sealing portion 265. The sealing walls 266 and 267 may extend along the periphery of the first wick sealing portion 265 to form a periphery. A plurality of sealing walls 266 and 267 may be formed. For example, the sealing walls 266 and 267 may include a first sealing wall 266 adjacent to the periphery of the first wick sealing portion 265 and a second sealing wall 267 spaced outward from the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may surround the first sealing wall 266.

[0177] The sealer 26 includes an airflow sealing portion 268. The airflow sealing portion 268 may surround the periphery of the first airflow outlet 242. The airflow sealing portion 268 may protrude upward from the upper surface of the sealing plate 261. The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the airflow sealing portion 268. The airflow sealing portion 268 may be formed on the outer side of the sealing walls 266 and 267.

[0178] The wick 25 can be made of a porous rigid material that absorbs liquid. For example, the wick 25 may be made of a porous ceramic. The wick 25 is more rigid or heat resistant than a men wick.

[0179] Therefore, the shape of the wick 25 is not deformed and various shapes can be realized. In addition, the durability of the wick 25 is improved, and the replacement cycle of the first container 20 equipped with the wick 25 can be increased.

[0180] The first wick part 251 may extend horizontally. The first wick part 251 may have a hexahedral shape. The upper surface of the first wick part 251 is formed horizontally. The lower surface of the first wick part 251 is formed horizontally. The side surface of the first wick part 251 may be formed between the upper peripheral edge and the lower peripheral edge, and may define the periphery of the first wick part 251. The side surface of the first wick part 251 is named as the peripheral surface of the first wick part 251.

[0181] The second wick part 252 may protrude upward from the center of the upper surface of the first wick part 251. The second wick part 252 may extend horizontally. The second wick part 252 may have a hexahedral shape. The upper surface of the second wick part 252 may be formed horizontally. The lower surface of the second wick part 252 may be formed horizontally. The lower surface of the second wick part 252 may overlap the upper surface of the first wick part 251. The side surfaces of the second wick part 252 may be formed between the upper surface periphery and the lower surface periphery, and may define the periphery of the second wick part 252. The side surfaces of the second wick part 252 are named like the peripheral surfaces of the second wick part 252.

[0182] The first wick part 251 may be larger than the second wick part 252. The periphery of the upper surface of the first wick part 251 may be larger than the periphery of the upper surface of the second wick part 252. The height of the first wick part 251 may be larger than the height of the second wick part 252. The length of the first wick part 251 may be larger than the length of the second wick part 252. The width of the first wick part 251 may be larger than the width of the second wick part 252.

[0183] The first wick part 251 may further protrude horizontally outward by a certain width from the lower surface of the second wick part 252. The second wick part 252 may protrude from the inside of the periphery of the upper surface of the first wick part 251. The periphery of the upper surface of the first wick part 251 may protrude outward from the lower surface of the second wick part 252.

[0184] The heater 2531 may be attached to the first wick 251. The heater 2531 may form a pattern on the lower surface of the first wick 251. The heater 2531 may form various patterns along the length of the first wick 251. Both ends of the heater 2531 may be adjacent to both ends of the first wick 251.

[0185] The pair of first terminals 2533 may be formed on both ends of the heater 2531. The first terminals 2533 may be coupled to the lower surface of the first wick part 251. The pair of first terminals 2533 may be adjacent to both ends of the first wick part 251. The first terminals 2533 may protrude below the first wick part 251.

[0186] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a first container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] 8, the first airflow inlet 241 may be formed on the lower side of the first chamber C1. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the upper side of the first chamber C1. The first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed side by side. The wick 25 may be disposed on the right side of the first chamber C1, and the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. The first channel CN1 may be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1 and may include the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242. Air flows into the first channel CN1 through the first airflow inlet 241 and is discharged through the first airflow outlet 242.

[0188] The first terminal 2533 contacts the second terminal 223 and electrically connects the heater 2531 to the second terminal 223. The second terminal 223 can support the first terminal 2533 and the lower surface 2513 of the first wick part 251.

[0189] The lower part of the first wick part 251 is supported by the supporter 227. The upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251 is supported around the liquid inlet 235 by the lower part of the second case 23 and / or the second wick sealing part 262. The peripheral edge of the side part 2522 of the second wick part 252 may be supported by the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235 and / or the inner surface of the first wick sealing part 265.

[0190] This allows the wick 25 to be fixed to the first container 20.

[0191] The supporter 227 separates the first wick part 2511 upward from the bottom of the first chamber C1. The supporter 227 may be disposed around the heater 2513. When the supporter 227 is attached to the lower surface 2513 of the first wick part 2511, it forms gaps 227c and 227d that connect the heater 2531 to the first chamber C1. The supporter 227 opens between the first channel CN1 and the heater 2531 to form the first gap 227c.

[0192] The supporter 227 includes a first supporter 227a and a second supporter 227b. The second supporter 227b may be positioned closer to the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 than the first supporter 227a. The first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be adjacent to the left side of the first wick part 251. The first supporter 227a extends along the right corner between the lower surface 2513 and the side surface 2512 of the first wick part 251. The first supporter 227a supports the periphery of the right corner between the lower surface 2513 and the side surface 2512 of the first wick part 251. A pair of second supporters 227b support the periphery of the left vertex of the first wick part 251.

[0193] The pair of second supporters 227b are spaced apart from each other to form a first gap 227c through which air flows between the periphery of the heater 2531 and the first air inlet 242. The first supporter 227a and the second supporter 227b are spaced apart from each other to form a second gap 227d through which air flows between the periphery of the heater 2531 and the first air inlet 242. The first gap 227c and the second gap 227d may be formed around the periphery of the lower surface 2513 of the first wick part 251.

[0194] This allows the aerosol generated by the wick 25 and the air around it to pass around the pair of supporters 227 and flow smoothly toward the first airflow outlet 242.

[0195] The first wick sealing portion 265 is disposed between the peripheral surface 2522 of the second wick part 252 and the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235. The inner peripheral surface of the first wick sealing portion 265 may be in close contact with the peripheral surface 2522 of the second wick part 252. The first wick sealing portion 265 can provide a seal between the peripheral surface 2522 of the second wick part 252 and the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235.

[0196] The periphery of the upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251 may be larger than the periphery of the liquid inlet 235. The periphery of the upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251 may be formed horizontally outward from the periphery of the liquid inlet 235. The end portion of the first wick part 251 can absorb liquid leaking between the liquid inlet 235 and the peripheral surface 2522 of the second wick part 252.

[0197] The second wick sealing portion 262 may protrude downward from the periphery of the liquid inlet 235 toward the upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251. The second wick sealing portion 262 may be in close contact with the upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251. The second wick sealing portion 262 supports the upper surface 2511 of the first wick part 251.

[0198] This prevents the liquid supplied from the second container 30 to the wick 25 from being absorbed by the wick 25 and leaking into the first chamber C1 through the gap between the second wick part 252 and the peripheral surface 235a of the liquid inlet 235.

[0199] Figure 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the first container and the second container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 10 is a combined cross-sectional view of the first container and the second container of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the airflow channel of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0200] 9, the second container 30 may provide a second chamber C2 for storing a liquid. The second chamber C2 may be opened to form a liquid outlet 314. The liquid outlet 314 may be formed in a lower portion of the second chamber C2. The liquid outlet 314 may be composed of a plurality of holes. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 is discharged through the liquid outlet 314.

[0201] The absorbent section 316 can close the lower part of the liquid outlet 314. The absorbent section 316 can absorb liquid that has passed through the liquid outlet 314. For example, the absorbent section 316 may be formed from a felt material.

[0202] The bracket 317 may protrude from the lower side of the second container 30 around the liquid outlet 314. The bracket 317 may surround the side peripheral edge of the absorbent unit 316. The absorbent unit 316 is exposed from the bracket 317 to the lower side of the second container 30. The bracket 317 may fix the absorbent unit 316 to the lower part of the first container 30. The bracket 317 may support the lower peripheral edge of the absorbent unit 316 in a hook-like manner.

[0203] A film is detachably attached to the lower surface of the absorbent portion 316. An end of the film may be attached to the lower surface of the bracket 317. The film may be made of a waterproof material. The film can prevent liquid from leaking from the absorbent portion 316. Before connecting the second container 30 to the first container 20, the user can peel the film off the absorbent portion 316.

[0204] The recessed portion 315 may be formed by recessing the lower surface 312 of the second container 30 upward. The groove formed by the recessed portion 315 may surround the periphery of the bracket 317.

[0205] The second container 30 may include one configuration of the second coupler 152. For example, the hook groove 325 may be formed by recessing the outer wall of the second container 30. As another example, the hook 125 may be formed by protruding the outer wall of the second container 30. As another example, the second container 30 may include a magnet or a ferromagnetic material.

[0206] The second container 30 may provide an airflow discharge channel 340. The airflow discharge channel 340 is separated from the second chamber C2 by the inner wall of the second container 30. The airflow discharge channel 340 is defined by the outer and inner walls of the second container 30. Both ends of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open at a lower side. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be open at an upper side. One end of the airflow discharge channel 340 may be formed by opening the lower surface 312 of the second container 30. The other end of the airflow discharge channel 340 is connected to a second airflow discharge port 354 formed inside the mouthpiece 35. The airflow discharge channel 340 is named a second channel CN2.

[0207] 10 , the first container 20 is detachably coupled to the main body 10. A first coupler 151 may detachably couple the first container 20 to the main body 10. The second container 30 may be detachably coupled to the first container 20. The second container 30 may be indirectly coupled to the first container 20 by being coupled to the main body 10 via a second coupler 152. The second container 30 may be coupled to the upper side of the first container 20.

[0208] When the second container 30 is coupled to the first container 20, the second container 30 can supply liquid to the wick 25. The liquid stored in the second chamber C2 passes through the liquid outlet 314 and is absorbed by the absorbing part 316, and the absorbing part 316, which has absorbed the liquid, can contact the second wick part 252 and transfer the liquid. The liquid absorbed by the second wick part 252 is diffused into the first wick part 251. The heater 2531 can generate an aerosol by heating the first wick part 251, which has absorbed the liquid.

[0209] The sealer 26 seals the periphery of the liquid inlet 235 through which the wick 25 is exposed from the first chamber C1. When the second container 30 is attached to the top of the first container 20, the sealer 26 seals between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

[0210] The sealing walls 266, 267 may protrude toward the second container 30. The sealing walls 266, 267 may be in close contact with the second container 30. The sealing walls 266, 267 may surround the periphery of the liquid phase inlet 235.

[0211] This makes it possible to prevent the liquid discharged from the second container 30 from leaking from the gap between the first container 20 and the second container 30.

[0212] The first sealing wall 266 surrounds the liquid inlet 235 and the periphery 2522 of the second wick part 252. The first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with the lower part of the second container 30. The first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with a protruding portion formed on the inside of the recess 315. For example, the first sealing wall 266 may be in close contact with the bracket 317. The bracket 317 and the first sealing wall 266 surround the periphery 2522 of the second wick part 252. In this way, the bracket 317 not only fixes the absorber 316 but also presses the first sealing wall 266 to seal the periphery of the second wick part 252 and the liquid inlet 235.

[0213] The second sealing wall 267 may protrude higher than the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may be disposed horizontally outward of the first sealing wall 266 and surround the periphery of the first sealing wall 266. The second sealing wall 267 may be in close contact with the lower part of the second container 30. The second sealing wall 267 may be inserted into a groove formed by the recessed portion 315 and in close contact with the recessed portion 315.

[0214] This allows the first sealing wall 266 to seal the periphery of the second wick part 252 and the liquid inlet 235. Furthermore, even if the liquid flows to the outside of the first sealing wall 266, it is sealed by the second sealing wall 267.

[0215] 11, the first channel CN1 may be formed on the left side of the first chamber C1. The wick 25 and the heater 2531 may be disposed on the right side of the first chamber C1. The first channel CN1 includes a first airflow inlet 241 and a first airflow outlet 242. The first airflow inlet 241 may be formed at one end of the first channel CN1. The first airflow outlet 242 may be formed at the other end of the first channel CN1. The first channel CN1 may be offset from the wick 25 in the vertical direction. The wick 25 is spaced apart from the first airflow inlet 241 and the second airflow inlet 242. Unlike the illustrated example, at least one of the first airflow inlet 241 and the first airflow outlet 242 may be formed by opening a sidewall of the first container 20 in the first channel CN1.

[0216] When the first container 20 is coupled to the main body 10, the second air inlet 141 formed by opening one side of the main body 10 communicates with the first air inlet 241. The space between the main body 10 and the first container 20 is sealed around the second air inlet 141. For example, a hook 125 may seal the space between the main body 10 and the first container 20 around the second air inlet 141.

[0217] When the second container 30 is connected to the first container 20, the first airflow outlet 242 and the lower part of the second channel CN2 are connected to each other. The first channel CN1 and the second channel CN2 are connected to each other to form a single flow path CN. The second channel CN2 is connected to the second airflow outlet 354.

[0218] When a user bites the mouthpiece 35 and inhales, the outside air passes through the second air inlet 141, the first channel CN1, the second channel CN2, and the second air outlet 354 in that order, and is provided to the user. Aerosol is generated in the first chamber C1, which is separated from the first channel CN1. The air passing through the first channel CN1 flows together with the air and aerosol in the first chamber C1 due to suction force and pressure. The air and aerosol pass through the first gap 227c and the second gap 227d between the supporters 227 and flow into the first channel CN1.

[0219] As a result, air flows only to one side of the first chamber C1, reducing the size of the flow path and optimizing the size of the aerosol generator. Also, air flow resistance from the structure supporting the wick 25 can be reduced.

[0220] The air flow sealing part 268 may be in close contact with the bottom of the second container 30 around the lower part of the second channel CN2. The air flow sealing part 268 surrounds the lower part of the second channel CN2 and the periphery of the first air flow outlet 242. The air flow sealing part 268 may seal between the first container 20 and the second container 30 around the lower part of the air flow exhaust passage 340 and the periphery of the first air flow outlet 242.

[0221] This prevents air passing through the airflow discharge passage 340 from the first airflow discharge port 242 from leaking between the first container 20 and the second container 30, thereby improving the air flow efficiency.

[0222] In this document, terms such as "substantially," "generally," "generally," and "about" when referring to a given parameter, attribute, or condition include the extent to which one skilled in the art would understand that the given parameter, attribute, or condition is met with a small degree of variance, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. For example, a particular parameter that is substantially met may be met at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least 99%.

[0223] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a heater according to one embodiment, Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of the heater of Fig. 12, Fig. 14 is a plan view of a portion of the heater of Fig. 13, and Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the heater taken along line 15-15 of Fig. 14.

[0224] 12-15, heater 550 can be configured to generate heat through surface plasmon resonance. "Surface plasmon resonance" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface of metal particles with a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of electrons in the metal particles may be generated by light propagating outside heater 550. The excitation of electrons in the metal particles generates thermal energy, which is transferred within an environment to which heater 550 is applied. In one embodiment, heater 550 is configured to transfer the generated heat to another object (e.g., an aerosol-generating article) to heat the object.

[0225] The heater 550 includes a substrate 551 having a first surface 551A (eg, a surface oriented in the +Z direction) and a second surface 551B (eg, a surface oriented in the −Z direction) opposite the first surface 551A.

[0226] The substrate 551 may have a plate shape. The first surface 551A and / or the second surface 551B may be formed as a substantially flat surface. The substrate 551 may have any shape suitable for generating heat. For example, the substrate 551 may be realized as a substantially cylindrical shape with the first surface 551A facing outward and the second surface 551B facing inward.

[0227] The substrate 551 can be formed of various materials. For example, the substrate 551 may be formed of a metal material such as aluminum, glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other suitable material. The substrate 551 may be formed of any one or combination of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), and sapphire. The substrate 551 includes a material having a relatively low heat transfer coefficient, which can transfer heat only to a portion of the substrate 551.

[0228] The substrate 551 exhibits electrical conductivity. The substrate 551 can also exhibit electrical insulation.

[0229] Substrate 551 may be formed of any material having any thermal conductivity suitable for use in the environment in which heater 550 is placed. For example, substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1 W / mK to about 2 W / mK, about 2 W / mK to about 5 W / mK, about 5 W / mK to about 10 W / mK, about 10 W / mK to about 100 W / mK, or about 100 W / mK to about 200 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C. Substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1.3 W / mK, about 148 W / mK, or about 46.06 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C.

[0230] Heater 550 includes a plurality of metal prisms 554 located on a first surface 551A of substrate 551. The plurality of metal prisms 554 may include a plurality of metal particles deposited on substrate 551 via any suitable deposition process (e.g., physical vapor deposition).

[0231] The metal particles forming the metal prisms 554 have nanoscale dimensions. For example, the metal particles may have an average maximum diameter of about 1 μm or less. The metal particles may have an average maximum diameter of about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, about 500 nm or less, about 400 nm or less, about 300 nm or less, about 200 nm or less, about 150 nm or less, or about 100 nm or less.

[0232] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of any material suitable for generating heat, for example, the plurality of metal particles may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum, aluminum, titanium, nickel, chromium, iron, cobalt, manganese, rhodium, and ruthenium, or a combination thereof.

[0233] The metal particles may be formed of any material suitable for interacting with light in a particular wavelength range (e.g., a wavelength range of visible light, i.e., about 380 nm to about 780 nm) to generate heat. For example, the metal particles may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, and platinum, or a combination thereof.

[0234] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance. Here, the average maximum absorbance is defined as an absorbance having a substantial peak in a specific wavelength range. The specific wavelength range corresponding to the absorbance is understood to be a wavelength range in which the plurality of metal particles are resonant. For example, the plurality of metal particles may be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance in a wavelength range between about 430 nm and about 450 nm, between about 480 nm and about 500 nm, between about 490 nm and about 510 nm, between about 500 nm and about 520 nm, between about 550 nm and about 570 nm, between about 600 nm and about 620 nm, between about 620 nm and about 640 nm, between about 630 nm and about 650 nm, between about 640 nm and about 660 nm, between about 680 nm and about 700 nm, or between about 700 nm and about 750 nm. The average maximum absorbance of the plurality of metal particles may vary depending on the type of substrate 551, the size and / or shape of the metal prisms 554 formed by the plurality of metal particles, as well as the metal material.

[0235] The plurality of metal prisms 554 define a void area VA surrounded by the plurality of metal prisms 554 on the first surface 551A of the substrate 551. For example, the void area VA may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, and the plurality of metal prisms 554 may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the void area VA.

[0236] The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 10 nm or more, about 50 nm or more, about 90 nm or more, about 100 nm or more, about 150 nm or more, about 200 nm or more, about 300 nm or more, about 350 nm or more, about 450 nm or more, or about 500 nm or more. The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 450 nm or more. The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 350 nm or more.

[0237] The void areas VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 1,000 nm or less, about 900 nm or less, about 800 nm or less, about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, or about 550 nm or less.

[0238] The multiple metal prisms 554 each include a first base surface 554A (e.g., a lower base surface) facing the first surface 551A of the substrate 551, a second base surface 554B (e.g., an upper base surface) opposite the first base surface 554A, and multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 between the first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B.

[0239] The first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B may be substantially parallel to one another.

[0240] The first base surface 554A and / or the second base surface 554B may be substantially flat.

[0241] In one embodiment, the distance between the first base surface 554A and the second base surface 554B (e.g., the thickness of the metal prism 554) may be approximately 10 nm or less. If the metal prism 554 has a thickness greater than 10 nm, the heat generation reaction of the metal particles forming the metal prism 554 may be reduced, resulting in a reduction in the thermal efficiency of the heater 550.

[0242] The side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, and 554C3 may be oriented in different directions from one another. For example, the first side surface 554C1 may be oriented in a first direction (e.g., a first radial direction), the second side surface 554C2 may be connected to the first side surface 554C1 and oriented in a second direction (e.g., a second radial direction), and the third side surface 554C3 may be connected to both the first side surface 554C1 and the second side surface 554C3 and oriented in a third direction (e.g., a third radial direction).

[0243] At least one of the side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as a substantially curved surface. The side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as curved surfaces having substantially the same curvature. The curvature of any one of the side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be different from the curvature of the other side surfaces.

[0244] The multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as curved surfaces that are concave toward the center of the metal prism 554. At least one of the multiple side surfaces 554C1, 554C2, 554C3 may be formed as a curved surface that is convex from the center of the metal prism 554.

[0245] The plurality of metal prisms 554 may include two side surfaces. For example, the metal prisms 554 may have a substantially semicircular or nearly semicircular shape.

[0246] The multiple metal prisms 554 may be arranged to be physically separated from one another on the first surface 551A of the substrate 551. For example, the multiple metal prisms 554 may be spaced apart from one another at intervals determined along the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void area VA.

[0247] The multiple metal prisms 554 may be spaced apart at substantially the same intervals. The interval between adjacent pairs of the multiple metal prisms 554 may be different from the interval between other adjacent pairs of the metal prisms 554.

[0248] FIG. 16 is a plan view of a portion of a heater according to one embodiment.

[0249] 16 , heater 650 includes a substrate 651 and a metal prism 654 positioned on substrate 651. Metal prism 654 defines multiple void regions VA as a substantially single structure. For example, metal prism 654 defines substantially the entire periphery of multiple void regions VA. Metal prism 654 includes a first prism region 6541 at one position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of void region VA, a second prism region 6542 at another position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of void region VA, and a third prism region 6543 between first prism region 6541 and second prism region 6542. First prism region 6541, second prism region 6542, and third prism region 6543 may be seamlessly connected together.

[0250] 17 to 19 show a method for manufacturing a heater according to one embodiment, in which FIG. 17 shows that multiple metal particles are deposited on a substrate, FIG. 18 shows that an annealing process is performed on the structure of FIG. 17, and FIG. 19 shows a heater manufactured by the annealing process of FIG. 18.

[0251] 17-19, a method for manufacturing a heater 750 includes providing a substrate 751. The substrate 751 has a plate shape with opposing surfaces. At least one surface of the substrate 751 may be substantially flat. At least one surface of the substrate 751 may be curved.

[0252] The method for manufacturing the heater 750 includes forming a metal layer 753 on one side of the substrate 751 (e.g., the top side in FIG. 17 ). The metal layer 753 may be formed by coating metal particles on the one side of the substrate 751. For example, the metal particles may be deposited by sputtering, ion beam evaporation, thermal evaporation, chemical vapor deposition, plasma deposition, and / or any other suitable deposition method. The metal layer 753 may be formed by disposing a film on the one side of the substrate 751. The thickness of the metal layer 753 may be approximately 10 nm or less. If the metal layer 753 is formed on the substrate 751 with a thickness greater than 10 nm, the exothermic reaction may be reduced in the structure formed by the metal layer 753 (e.g., metal particles P1, P2, P3, P4). A thickness of the structure formed by the metal layer 753 greater than 10 nm may increase the likelihood of heat loss to the surroundings of the heater 750, thereby reducing the thermal efficiency of the heater 750.

[0253] The method for manufacturing the heater 750 includes annealing a metal layer 753 on a substrate 751. Annealing the metal layer 753 may form a boundary B (e.g., a grain boundary) between adjacent metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4. In annealing the metal layer 753, the heating temperature of the metal layer 753 may be about 150°C or higher, about 160°C or higher, about 170°C or higher, about 180°C or higher, about 190°C or higher, about 200°C or higher, about 210°C or higher, about 220°C or higher, about 230°C or higher, or about 240°C or higher. The metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 on the substrate 751 are deformed with respect to the boundary B. In the annealing environment, a flux is applied to adjacent metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4 arranged on both sides of boundary B, causing dewetting of the metal segments S1, S2, S3, and S4.

[0254] In the annealing environment, dehumidification causes a plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 to be formed on the substrate 751. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may be compartmentalized based on the boundary B. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may have random sizes. The metal particle size of any one of the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may be different from the metal particle size of any other one of the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may have nanoscale sizes. For example, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may have random sizes within a range of an average maximum diameter of approximately 1 μm or less. In any embodiment, the plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may have random sizes within an average maximum diameter range of about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, about 500 nm or less, about 400 nm or less, about 300 nm or less, about 200 nm or less, about 150 nm or less, or about 100 nm or less. The plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 may not be bonded to each other across boundary B.

[0255] FIG. 20 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0256] 20 , an aerosol-generating device 800 includes at least one heater 850 (e.g., heater 450 and / or heaters 550, 650, 750) configured to heat an aerosol-generating article and at least one light source 855 configured to emit light toward the at least one heater 850. The aerosol-generating device 800 includes a plurality of reservoirs 830 configured to contain a liquid-phase composition and a wick 860 configured to carry the liquid-phase composition from the plurality of reservoirs 830. The wick 860 may be coupled to the plurality of reservoirs 830 so as to be fluidly connected thereto. The at least one heater 850 may be thermally coupled to the wick 860. The liquid-phase composition contained in the wick 860 is vaporized by the heater 850 and discharged to the outside of the aerosol-generating device 800 through the mouth end along a passage defined between the plurality of reservoirs 830. On the other hand, while Figure 20 illustrates the aerosol generating device 800 as having a control unit 810 configured to control the heater 850 and / or light source 855, and a battery 840 configured to supply electrical energy to the control unit 810, other components may be included or omitted.

[0257] The aerosol-generating device 800 includes a single heater 850. The heater 850 at least partially surrounds a cavity in which an aerosol-generating article can be placed. The heater 850 may have a structure in which, for example, the substrate 551, 651, 751 is at least partially curved.

[0258] The aerosol generating device 800 includes multiple heaters 850. The multiple heaters 850 may be located at different positions relative to the cavity in which the aerosol-generating article is placed. The metal materials of the metal prisms included in the multiple heaters 850 may be the same or different.

[0259] The light source 855 may be configured to transmit an optical signal at a predetermined angle toward the heater 850. For example, the light source 855 may transmit an optical signal at an angle that allows total internal reflection at a surface of the heater 850 (e.g., a surface of the substrate 551, 651, 751 and / or surfaces 654B, 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 of the metal prisms 554, 654, 754). In one embodiment, the light source 855 may transmit an optical signal at any angle toward the heater 850.

[0260] Light source 855 is configured to transmit light in the ultraviolet, visible, and / or infrared bands. In any embodiment, light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in the visible band (e.g., about 380 nm to about 780 nm).

[0261] Light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in a band corresponding to the material of the metal particles in the metal prisms (e.g., metal prisms 554, 654, 754) included in heater 850. For example, light source 855 may transmit light in a wavelength band corresponding to the average maximum absorbance by the material of the metal particles. In embodiments in which the metal prisms are formed of gold, light source 855 may transmit light having a wavelength of about 630 nm or about 800 nm.

[0262] Light source 855 can transmit light at any suitable power output. For example, light source 855 may transmit light at a power output of approximately 1,000 mW.

[0263] The light source 855 includes a light emitting diode and / or a laser of a type and / or size suitable for inclusion in the aerosol generating device 800. For example, the laser may include a solid-state laser and / or a semiconductor laser.

[0264] The aerosol generating device 800 includes a plurality of light sources 855. The plurality of light sources 855 may be realized by the same type of light source, or at least some of the plurality of light sources 855 may be realized by different types of light sources.

[0265] At least one light source 855 of the plurality of light sources 855 may be configured to illuminate a portion of the heater 850 .

[0266] The portion of the heater 850 illuminated by any one of the multiple light sources 855 may be different from the portion of the heater 850 illuminated by another of the multiple light sources 855. For example, the multiple light sources 855 may illuminate different portions of a single heater 850, or may illuminate multiple heaters 850, respectively.

[0267] The multiple light sources 855 may be configured to illuminate substantially simultaneously. The illumination time of any one light source 855 of the multiple light sources 855 may be different from the illumination time of any other light source 855.

[0268] The multiple light sources 855 may illuminate the heater 850 for substantially the same amount of time. The illumination time of any one of the multiple light sources 855 may be different from the illumination time of any other one of the light sources 855.

[0269] The multiple light sources 855 may transmit light in substantially the same wavelength band, and the band of light emitted by any one of the multiple light sources 855 may be different from the band of light emitted by any other one of the multiple light sources 855.

[0270] The multiple light sources 855 may illuminate the heater 850 with substantially the same illumination. The illumination of any one of the multiple light sources 855 may be different from the illumination of any other one of the light sources 855.

[0271] Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a heater in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the heater taken along line 22-22 in Fig. 21. Fig. 23 is an enlarged view of part A in Fig. 22.

[0272] 21 to 23, the aerosol generating device 900 includes a cartridge 905. The cartridge 905 may include at least one reservoir (see FIG. 20) configured to hold a liquid-phase composition therein. The cartridge 905 may be built into the aerosol generating device 900 when the aerosol generating device 900 is manufactured. The cartridge 905 may not be included in the aerosol generating device 900 when the aerosol generating device 900 is manufactured. The cartridge 905 may be provided to the aerosol generating device 900 and removed from the aerosol generating device 900. The cartridge 905 includes a hole 911. The hole 911 may be located on one surface of the cartridge 905 (for example, the bottom surface facing outward in the -Z direction).

[0273] The aerosol-generating device 900 includes a heater 950. The heater 950 may be configured to generate heat. The generated heat is transferred to the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be heated to a target temperature (e.g., approximately 350°C) by the transferred heat. The aerosol-generating material in aerosol form may be carried by a carrier (e.g., air) flowing in through at least one vent provided in the aerosol-generating device 900 and then transferred to a user through the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device 900.

[0274] The heater 950 includes a substrate 951. The substrate 951 includes a first surface 951A and a second surface 951B opposite the first surface 951A.

[0275] The first surface 951A of the substrate 951 includes a curved surface. The first surface 951A can define a cavity CV. For example, the first surface 951A defines a substantially hemispherical cavity CV. The first surface 951A may be substantially continuous over the entire area. Some areas of the first surface 951A may be discontinuous with other areas. The first surface 951A has a substantially constant radius of curvature R over the entire area. The radius of curvature R of some areas of the first surface 951A may be different from the radius of curvature R of other areas.

[0276] The second surface 951B of the substrate 951 includes a curved surface. The second surface 951B may be substantially parallel to the first surface 951A. A portion of the second surface 951B may not be parallel to a portion of the first surface 951A that faces the second surface 951B. In an embodiment not shown, at least a portion of the second surface 951B may be substantially flat.

[0277] The substrate 951 may be realized as a three-dimensional solid expressed in azimuth and altitude angles. For example, the substrate 951 may include a dome-shaped solid. Any first region A1 of the substrate 951 may face any second region A2 that is at least partially different from (e.g., at least partially non-overlapping with) the first region A1. For example, the substrate 951 may be realized as a three-dimensional solid having an azimuth angle of substantially 360 degrees and an altitude angle ranging from approximately -60 degrees to 90 degrees.

[0278] The heater 950 includes an opening 952. The opening 952 is configured to allow light to pass through to the cavity CV. The opening 952 is defined by at least one edge of the first surface 951A of the substrate 951. The opening 952 may be substantially aligned with the hole 911.

[0279] The heater 950 includes a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure 953 configured to generate heat by SPR. The SPR structure 953 includes a plurality of prisms 554 described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 15. The SPR structure 953 includes a metal prism 654 described with reference to FIG. 16. The SPR structure 953 includes a plurality of metal particles P1, P2, P3, and P4 described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19. The SPR structure 953 may include a film of a metal material (e.g., gold (Au)) having a specific thickness (e.g., a thickness of about 10 nm or less). The SPR structure 953 may be disposed on the first surface 951A of the substrate 951. The SPR structure 953 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the first surface 951A. The SPR structure 953 may be disposed in a localized region of the first surface 951A.

[0280] The heater 950 includes an absorbing layer 954. The absorbing layer 954 is configured to absorb light that transmits through the substrate 951 in a direction from the first surface 951A toward the second surface 951B of the substrate 951. The absorbing layer 954 is configured to absorb light that is reflected within the heater 950. The absorbing layer 954 can increase the light utilization efficiency of the heater 950.

[0281] The absorbent layer 954 may be disposed on or over the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 may be disposed in a localized area of ​​the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 may be attached to the second surface 951B. The absorbent layer 954 may be separated from the aerosol-generating material contained in the reservoir of the cartridge 905, thereby ensuring the safety of the aerosol inhaled by the user.

[0282] The absorbing layer 954 includes a material of a color having a relatively high saturation (e.g., black). For example, the absorbing layer 954 may be heat resistant to approximately 800 degrees Celsius.

[0283] The heater 950 includes a reflective layer 955. The reflective layer 955 may be configured to reflect light transmitted through the substrate 951 in a direction from the first surface 951A to the second surface 951B of the substrate 951 back toward the substrate 951 or toward the absorbing layer 954. The reflective layer 955 may be spaced above the absorbing layer 954 by a gap G. The reflective layer 955 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the absorbing layer 954. The reflective layer 955 may be disposed in a localized area of ​​the absorbing layer 954.

[0284] In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 955 may be disposed on the absorbing layer 954 without the gap G. In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 955 may be disposed on the second surface 951B of the substrate 951, and the absorbing layer 954 may be disposed on the reflective layer 955.

[0285] The reflective layer 955 may include any material suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 955 may include at least one or a combination of gold, silver, copper, or any other metallic material suitable for reflecting light.

[0286] The reflective layer 955 may have any thickness suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 955 may have a thickness of about 10 nm or less.

[0287] The heater 950 includes a heat transfer body 956. The heat transfer body 956 is configured to transfer heat generated by the SPR structure 953 to the aerosol-generating material. The heat transfer body 956 includes an enclosure portion 956A that substantially surrounds the substrate 951, the SPR structure 953, the absorbing layer 954, and the reflective layer 955, and a non-enclosure portion 956B that does not surround these. The enclosure portion 956A has a shape (e.g., a dome shape) that corresponds to the shape of the cavity CV. The non-enclosure portion 956B can be extended or expanded from the enclosure portion 956A along one surface of the cartridge 905 (e.g., the bottom surface of the interior).

[0288] The heat transfer body 956 may transfer heat by conduction. In an embodiment not shown, a gap may be formed on either side of the heat transfer body 956, and heat may be transferred by convection or radiation.

[0289] The heat transfer body 956 includes a metal material. For example, the heat transfer body 956 may include aluminum or copper.

[0290] The heat transfer body 956 may have different materials. For example, an enclosure portion 956A corresponding to an area where light is irradiated (e.g., a curved area) after the area of ​​the substrate 951 may have a first material, and a non-enclosure portion 956B not corresponding to the area may have a second material.

[0291] The enclosure portion 956A and the non-enclosure portion 956B may have different thermal properties, and the thermal conductivity of a first material (e.g., copper) comprising the enclosure portion 956A (e.g., 401 W / mK) may be greater than the thermal conductivity of a second material (e.g., aluminum) comprising the non-enclosure portion 956B (e.g., 237 W / mK). The thermal capacity of the enclosure portion 956A may be less than the thermal capacity of the non-enclosure portion 956B.

[0292] The aerosol generating device 900 includes a wick 960. The wick 960 is configured to transport the aerosol-generating material contained in the reservoir of the cartridge 905 to the heater 950. The wick 960 is connected to at least one portion that stores the aerosol-generating material. The wick 960 includes an extended region 960A that extends along one surface (e.g., the bottom surface of the interior) of the cartridge 905 and a cover region 960B that covers a partial area or substantially the entire area outside the heater 950. The extended region 960A may be disposed on the non-enclosure portion 956B. The cover region 960B may be disposed on the enclosure portion 956A. The extended region 960A and the cover region 960B may be connected to each other so as to be fluidly connected. The contact area between the heater 950 and the cover region 960B is increased, and the contact area between the wick 960 and the carrier (e.g., air) is also increased.

[0293] The aerosol generating device 900 includes an optical fiber 970. The optical fiber 970 is configured to transmit light generated from a light source (e.g., light source 855 in FIG. 20 ) to the heater 950. The optical fiber 970 may be directly coupled to the light source. At least one optical element (e.g., a lens, a mirror, and / or a collimator) may be disposed between the light source and the optical fiber 970. The optical fiber 970 may be coupled to the hole 911. The optical fiber 970 may extend to the opening 952. The optical fiber 970 may be tightly coupled to the hole 911 and / or the opening 952. This may increase the efficiency of light passing through the optical fiber 970 being transmitted to the cavity CV to approximately 99%. Because the amount of light used in the heater 950 can be controlled at a predictable level, heat loss in the heater 950 can be reduced and thermal stability of the heater 950 can be ensured.

[0294] Fig. 24 is a diagram schematically illustrating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment, and Fig. 25 is a diagram illustrating a portion of an SPR heater of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0295] 24 and 25, an aerosol generating device 1000 includes a housing 1010, also referred to as the "body." The housing 1010 includes a mouth end 1011 and an end of the device (not shown) opposite the mouth end 1011. The housing 1010 includes a mouthpiece 1012. The mouthpiece 1012 may be located at or adjacent to the mouth end 1011. The housing 1010 includes an airflow path leading to the mouthpiece 1012.

[0296] The aerosol generating device 1000 includes a chamber 1020. The chamber 1020 is configured to be coupled within and / or detached from the housing 1010. The chamber 1020 includes a first reservoir 1021. The first reservoir 1021 holds a first aerosol generating substance M1. The first aerosol generating substance M1 includes a first liquid-phase composition. The chamber 1020 includes a second reservoir 1022. The second reservoir 1022 holds a second aerosol generating substance M2. The second aerosol generating substance M2 includes a second liquid-phase composition. The first liquid-phase composition and the second liquid-phase composition may at least partially contain the same components. The first liquid-phase composition and the second liquid-phase composition may also be composed of different components.

[0297] The first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022 may be arranged in a circumferential direction (for example, in a circumferential direction relative to the Z axis) of the housing 1010. The first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022 may be spaced apart from each other.

[0298] In embodiments not shown, chamber 1020 may include a single reservoir (1021 or 1022). In embodiments not shown, chamber 1020 may include three or more reservoirs.

[0299] The aerosol generating device 1000 includes a heater 1030. The heater 1030 is configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). "Surface plasmon resonance" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface of metal particles with a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of the electrons of the metal particles is generated by light propagating outside the heater 1030. The excitation of the electrons of the metal particles generates thermal energy, which can be transferred within the environment to which the heater 1030 is applied.

[0300] The heater 1030 includes a substrate 1031. The substrate 1031 includes a first end 1031A disposed toward the mouth end 1011 or the mouthpiece 1012. The first end 1031A may include a substantially closed surface. The first end 1031A may substantially prevent light from passing through the first end 1031A. The substrate 1031 includes a second end 1031B disposed toward the device end (not shown). The second end 1031B is disposed opposite the first end 1031A. The second end 1031B may be at least partially open. For example, the second end 1031B includes an opening 1031B1. The substrate 1031 includes a side 1031C extending between the first end 1031A and the second end 1031B. The first end 1031A, the second end 1031B, and the side 1031C define a substantially cylindrical shape of the substrate 1031. The substrate 1031 includes an outer surface F1. At least a portion of the outer surface F1 (e.g., an outer side surface) may at least partially face at least one of the first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022. The substrate 1031 includes an inner surface F2. The inner surface F2 may be disposed opposite the outer surface F1. The inner surface F2 includes an inner end surface (e.g., a -Z direction surface) of the first end 1031A and an inner side surface of the side 1031C. The inner surface F2 defines a hollow portion 1031D. The hollow portion 1031D may have a substantially cylindrical space.

[0301] The substrate 1031 may have a relatively small volume. For example, the diameter or width of the side 1031C may be about 1 mm, and the distance between the first end 1031A and the second end 1031B (e.g., the length of the substrate 1031) may be about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0302] The substrate 1031 can be formed of a variety of materials. For example, the substrate 1031 may be formed of a metal material such as aluminum, glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other suitable material. The substrate 1031 may be formed of any one or combination of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), and sapphire. The substrate 1031 may include a material with a relatively low heat transfer coefficient, which can transfer heat only to some areas on the substrate 1031.

[0303] The substrate 1031 exhibits electrical conductivity. The substrate 1031 may also exhibit electrical insulation.

[0304] Substrate 1031 may be formed from any material having a thermal conductivity suitable for use in the environment in which heater 1030 is placed. For example, substrate 1031 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1 W / mK to about 2 W / mK, about 2 W / mK to about 5 W / mK, about 5 W / mK to about 10 W / mK, about 10 W / mK to about 100 W / mK, or about 100 W / mK to about 200 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C. Substrate 1031 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1.3 W / mK, about 148 W / mK, or about 46.06 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C.

[0305] The heater 1030 includes a metal layer 1032 disposed on the inner surface F2. The metal layer 1032 includes a plurality of metal particles. Electrons constituting each of the plurality of metal particles may collectively vibrate upon receiving light. The excitation of the electrons may generate thermal energy.

[0306] The metal particles have nanoscale dimensions. For example, the metal particles may have an average maximum diameter of about 1 μm or less. The metal particles may have an average maximum diameter of about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, about 500 nm or less, about 400 nm or less, about 300 nm or less, about 200 nm or less, about 150 nm or less, or about 100 nm or less.

[0307] The plurality of metal particles may be formed from any material suitable for generating heat, for example, the plurality of metal particles may include at least one or a combination of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum, aluminum, titanium, nickel, chromium, iron, cobalt, manganese, rhodium, and ruthenium.

[0308] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of any material suitable for interacting with light in a particular wavelength range (e.g., the visible light wavelength range, i.e., about 380 nm to about 780 nm) to generate heat. For example, the plurality of metal particles may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, and platinum, or a combination thereof.

[0309] The plurality of metal particles may be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance. Here, the average maximum absorbance is defined as an absorbance having a substantial peak in a specific wavelength range. The specific wavelength range corresponding to the absorbance may be understood as a wavelength range in which the plurality of metal particles are resonant. For example, the plurality of metal particles may be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance in a wavelength range between about 430 nm and about 450 nm, between about 480 nm and about 500 nm, between about 490 nm and about 510 nm, between about 500 nm and about 520 nm, between about 550 nm and about 570 nm, between about 600 nm and about 620 nm, between about 620 nm and about 640 nm, between about 630 nm and about 650 nm, between about 640 nm and about 660 nm, between about 680 nm and about 700 nm, or between about 700 nm and about 750 nm. The average maximum absorbance of a plurality of metal particles depends on the type of substrate 1031, the size of metal layer 1032, and / or the shape of metal layer 1032, in addition to the metal material.

[0310] The metal layer 1032 may have a thickness of about 10 nm or less. A thickness of the metal layer 1032 exceeding 10 nm may reduce the exothermic reaction of the metal particles forming the metal layer 1032, thereby reducing the thermal efficiency of the heater 1030.

[0311] The heater 1030 includes an absorbing layer 1033 configured to absorb light. The absorbing layer 1033 is configured to absorb light passing through the substrate 1031 in a direction from the inner surface F2 of the substrate 1031 toward the outer surface F1. The absorbing layer 1033 can improve the light utilization efficiency of the heater 1030. The absorbing layer 1033 may be disposed on or above the outer surface F1. The absorbing layer 1033 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the outer surface F1. The absorbing layer 1033 may be disposed in a localized area of ​​the outer surface F1 (e.g., an outer side surface). The absorbing layer 1033 may be attached to the outer surface F1. The absorbing layer 1033 may be separated from the first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022. This can ensure the safety of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The absorbing layer 1033 includes a material with a relatively high color saturation (e.g., black). For example, the absorbent layer 1033 may include a material that forms a black matrix, such as carbon black. The absorbent layer 1033 may be heat resistant to approximately 800 degrees Celsius.

[0312] The heater 1030 includes a reflective layer 1034. The reflective layer 1034 is configured to reflect light passing through the substrate 1031 in a direction from the inner surface F2 toward the outer surface F1 of the substrate 1031 toward the inner surface F2. The reflective layer 1034 may be disposed on the absorbing layer 1033. In an embodiment not shown, the reflective layer 1034 may be spaced apart from the absorbing layer 1033 by a gap. The reflective layer 1034 may be disposed over substantially the entire area of ​​the absorbing layer 1033. The reflective layer 1034 may also be disposed on a localized region of the absorbing layer 1033. The reflective layer 1034 may include any material suitable for reflecting light. For example, the reflective layer 1034 may include at least one or a combination of gold, silver, copper, or any other metallic material suitable for reflection. The reflective layer 1034 may have any thickness suitable for reflecting light. For example, the thickness of the reflective layer 1034 may be approximately 10 nm or less.

[0313] The heater 1030 includes a heat transfer plate 1035. The heat transfer plate 1035 is configured to transfer heat generated by surface plasmon resonance to the wick 1040. The heat transfer plate 1035 transfers heat by conduction. In an embodiment not shown, a gap is formed between the heat transfer plate 1035 and the wick 1040, and the heat transfer plate 1035 may transfer heat to the wick 1040 by convection or radiation. The heat transfer plate 1035 includes a metal material. For example, the heat transfer plate 1035 may include aluminum or copper.

[0314] The heater 1030 is configured to be separate from the chamber 1020. The heater 1030 does not have to be included in a cartridge (e.g., cartridge 19 in FIGS. 1 to 11) that includes the chamber 1020. This can reduce the manufacturing cost of the cartridge when manufacturing the cartridge, and allows the heater 1030 to be used semi-permanently.

[0315] The aerosol generating device 1000 includes a wick 1040. The wick 1040 is configured to transfer the aerosol-generating material from the chamber 1020 to the heater 1030. Heat generated by the heater 1030 can cause the aerosol-generating material held in the wick 1040 to undergo a phase change into an aerosol. The wick 1040 includes a first wick end 1041 coupled to at least one of the first reservoir 1021 and the second reservoir 1022. The wick 1040 includes a second wick end 1042 opposite the first wick end 1041. The second wick end 1042 is substantially coplanar with the second surface 1042 of the substrate 1031. In an embodiment not shown, the second wick end 1042 may be located anywhere on the outer surface F1. The wick 1040 includes a wick extension 1043 that extends along the exterior surface F1 (e.g., the exterior side surface) between the first wick end 1041 and the second wick end 1042. The wick extension 1043 may be at least partially in contact with the exterior surface F1.

[0316] The aerosol generating device 1000 includes an optical fiber 1050. The optical fiber 1050 is configured to transmit light generated from a light source (not shown) to the heater 1030. The optical fiber 1050 is coupled to the opening 1031B1. Light passing through the opening 1031B1 via the optical fiber 1050 enters the hollow portion 1031D and travels toward the inner surface of the substrate 1031.

[0317] The optical fiber 1050 may be tightly coupled to the opening 1031B1, which can increase the efficiency of light passing through the optical fiber 1050 and being transmitted to the hollow portion 1031D to approximately 99%. This can control the amount of light used by the heater 1030 to a predictable level, thereby reducing heat loss from the heater 1030 and ensuring the thermal stability of the heater 1030.

[0318] The aerosol-generating device 1000 may include an internal light source (not shown) configured to emit light. For example, the internal light source may include a laser light source. The internal light source may emit light in the ultraviolet, visible, and / or infrared bands. The aerosol-generating device 1000 may utilize an external light source external to the aerosol-generating device 1000 without an internal light source.

[0319] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an apparatus for manufacturing an SPR heater for an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0320] Referring to FIG. 26, a manufacturing apparatus 1100 can manufacture an SPR heater (eg, heater 1030) of an aerosol generating apparatus (eg, the aerosol generating apparatus 1000 of FIGS. 24 and 25).

[0321] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes a holder 1104. The holder 1104 is configured to support a substrate 1102 (e.g., substrate 1031 in FIGS. 24 and 25). The holder 1104 may include a substantially circular or oval disk, but is not limited thereto, and may include disks of various shapes (e.g., polygonal).

[0322] The holder 1104 is configured to rotate about a rotation axis defined on the holder 1104. The substrate 1102, which is disposed on one side of the holder 1104, may rotate about the rotation axis. The rotation of the holder 1104 allows for uniform deposition of the substrate 1102.

[0323] The holder 1104 is configured to heat the substrate 1102. The substrate 1102, which is disposed on one side of the holder 1104, is evaporated with one or more evaporation materials in a predetermined temperature environment. For example, the substrate 1102 may be preheated to approximately 800°C to 1,100°C.

[0324] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes a target 1106. The target 1106 can accommodate at least one type of deposition material DM (e.g., metal particles such as gold (Au) or silver (Ag) particles, carbon black, etc.). The target 1106 may deposit the vapor-phase-transformed at least one type of deposition material DM on one surface of the substrate 1102 (e.g., the inner surface of the first end 1031A and the inner side surface of the side portion 1031C in FIGS. 24 and 25). The target 1106 may be oriented toward the holder 1104 for uniform deposition on the substrate 1106.

[0325] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes an evaporator 1108. The evaporator 1108 can convert a deposition material DM into a gas and deposit it on a substrate 1102 on a holder 1104. For example, the evaporator 1108 includes a high-voltage power supply 1110 and a cathode 1112 electrically connected to the high-voltage power supply 1110. The cathode 1112 can accelerate electrons to form an electron beam E. The electron beam E generated from the cathode 1112 can be transmitted onto a target 1106 under a magnetic field B of a determined strength and direction, and toward the deposition material DM on the target 1106. The deposition material DM is converted into a gas by thermal energy generated by the electron beam E.

[0326] Deposition using an electron beam E is advantageous for depositing complex, small structures (e.g., the cylindrical substrate 1031 in FIGS. 24 and 25 ). Conventional vapor deposition methods can result in non-uniform deposition layers when depositing complex structures. For this reason, when depositing a hollow, cylindrical structure with open ends, deposition must be performed on the substrate 1102 in a direction toward one end, then the orientation of the substrate 1102 must be changed so that the opposite end faces the target 1106, and deposition must then be performed on the substrate 1102 in a direction toward the opposite end. Furthermore, because conventional vapor deposition methods are difficult to apply to depositing small structures, a deposition material impregnation method must be used. On the other hand, deposition using an electron beam E according to one embodiment can achieve uniform deposition across the entire inner surface of the first end 1031A and the entire inner side surface of the side 1031C of the substrate 1031 structure shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 without changing the orientation of the substrate 1102 or without an impregnation process with the deposition material DM.

[0327] The evaporator 1108 is configured to evaporate various types of deposition materials DM. For example, the evaporator 1108 can evaporate a first deposition material (e.g., carbon black) on the target 1106 and deposit it on the substrate 1102 to form a first layer (e.g., the absorbing layer 1033 in FIGS. 24 and 25), and then evaporate a second deposition material (e.g., metal particles) on the target 1106 and deposit it on the first layer to form a second layer (e.g., the metal layer 1032 in FIGS. 24 and 25).

[0328] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes a magnetic field generator 1114. The magnetic field generator 1114 is configured to generate a magnetic field B of any strength and direction suitable for moving the electron beam E from the cathode 1112 toward the target 1106 and the deposition material DM.

[0329] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes a chamber 1116 configured to house the holder 1104, the target 1106, and at least partially house the evaporator 1108. The chamber 1116 may have a vacuum environment. For example, the chamber 1116 may have a temperature of about 10-2 ~about 10 -4 The atmosphere may have a pressure of 100 Pa.

[0330] The manufacturing apparatus 1100 includes a vacuum pump 1118. The vacuum pump 1118 is configured to evacuate gas from the chamber 1116 so that the chamber 1116 maintains a defined vacuum environment.

[0331] Any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and any of the embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be used in combination with or in combination with each other in their respective configurations or functions.

[0332] For example, it means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing, that is, even if not directly described, configurations can be combined except for cases where they are described as incombinable.

[0333] The above detailed description should be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention should be determined by reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating article, said heater comprising: a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the first surface including a curved surface, the first surface defining a cavity; a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) structure configured to generate heat by SPR, the SPR structure being disposed on the first surface; an opening configured to allow light to pass through the cavity, the opening being defined by the first surface; An aerosol generating device comprising:

2. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the first region of the first surface faces a second region that is at least partially different from the first region of the first surface.

3. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the first surface has a substantially constant curvature.

4. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the heater further comprises an absorbing layer disposed on the second surface and configured to absorb light transmitted through the substrate.

5. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the heater further comprises a reflective layer disposed on the second surface and configured to reflect light transmitted through the substrate.

6. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heater further comprises a heat transfer body disposed on the second surface and configured to transfer the generated heat.

7. The heat transfer body is a first material having a first thermal property; a second material having a second thermal property different from the first thermal property; 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, comprising:

8. The SPR structure comprises: a void region; a plurality of prism regions defining the void region and arranged in a circumferential direction of the void region; 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, comprising:

9. The SPR structure comprises: a void region; a metal prism defining the void area and extending along the entire periphery of the void area; 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, comprising:

10. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the SPR structure comprises a plurality of randomly sized metal particles.

11. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising an optical fiber coupled to the opening.

12. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a wick configured to carry the aerosol-generating material, the wick being thermally coupled to the SPR structure.

13. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a cartridge containing the aerosol-generating material, the cartridge including a hole facing the opening.

14. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, further comprising a light source configured to generate light.

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