Aerosol generating device including a switch

Abstract

The aerosol generating device includes a first housing including a heater, a chamber for containing an aerosol generating material, and a pressure member shaped to protrude in a direction to be coupled to the first housing, a second housing detachably coupled to the first housing, and a switch provided in the first housing and connected to the heater.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an aerosol generating device that includes a switch. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternatives to traditional cigarettes that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for devices that generate aerosols by electrically heating cigarette sticks (e.g., cigarette-type electronic cigarettes). Therefore, active research has been conducted on cigarette sticks (or aerosol-generating articles) and electrically heated aerosol-generating devices into which cigarette sticks are inserted.

[0003] The above-mentioned background art was held or acquired by the inventors in the process of deriving the contents of the disclosure of this specification, and cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known art that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this application. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The aerosol generating device containing the aerosol generating material generates the aerosol by heating or vibrating the liquid-phase aerosol generating material stored in a cartridge or a chamber.

[0005] The aerosol generator has a structure in which one housing containing the aerosol-generating material and the other housing that generates the aerosol can be separated. In this case, it is necessary to recognize whether the two housings are connected or not to control the operation of the aerosol generator.

[0006] If a separate sensor or circuit is included to detect whether the two housings are connected, the manufacturing process becomes more difficult and the manufacturing cost becomes less efficient. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment may include a first housing including a heater, a second housing including a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating material and a pressure member shaped to protrude in a direction toward which the first housing is coupled and detachably coupled to the first housing, and a switch provided in the first housing and connected to the heater. In one embodiment, the switch may include a first conductive member, a second conductive member spaced apart from the first conductive member, and a movable member that is pressurized by the pressure member and moves when the first and second housings are coupled to each other, electrically connecting the first and second conductive members.

[0008] In one embodiment, the moving member may include a first contact terminal that is always in contact with the first conductive member and a second contact terminal that is in contact with the second conductive member when the moving member is moved by the pressing member.

[0009] In one embodiment, the moving member may be connected to the first conductive member and supported by the first conductive member.

[0010] In one embodiment, the moving member can include a guide region that is arranged to surround at least a partial region of the first conductive member and that has a shape that extends along a direction in which the moving member is moved by the pressure member.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first conductive member may include a separation prevention groove extending along the movement direction of the movable member. In one embodiment, the movable member may include a protruding region disposed within the separation prevention groove to limit the movement range of the movable member.

[0012] In one embodiment, the protruding region may have a hook structure in which an end of the protruding region is inserted into the anti-detachment groove.

[0013] In one embodiment, the movable member may include a leaf spring region that has a bent shape by extending along the movement direction of the movable member, and that gradually bends and increases in elastic force as the movable member is moved by the pressure member.

[0014] In one embodiment, the moving member may include a pressure surface provided on one side facing the pressure member and having a structure that is temporarily deformable when pressed by the pressure member.

[0015] In one embodiment, the moving member may be made of one continuous piece of conductive material.

[0016] In one embodiment, the moving member may be made of a structure coated with a conductive material.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first conductive member and the second conductive member may have a shape that extends along the movement direction of the moving member.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first conductive member and the second conductive member may have substantially the same shape as each other.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first housing may include an accommodating space in which the switch is accommodated, an insertion hole that communicates from the accommodating space to the outside of the first housing and into which the pressing member is inserted when the first housing and the second housing are coupled, and a sealing film that opens the insertion hole when the pressing member is inserted and seals the insertion hole when the pressing member is pulled out.

[0020] In one embodiment, the moving member may include a body made of a non-conductive material and a conductive region coupled to the body.

[0021] In one embodiment, the conductive region can contact the first conductive member and the second conductive member simultaneously when the moving member is moved by the pressing member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] The aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present document includes a physically driven switch that shorts out when the first housing and the second housing are connected, allowing for easy and convenient control of heater operation.

[0023] Additionally, an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present document may provide a switch with a simplified structure, which may improve space efficiency and have manufacturing advantages for the aerosol generating device.

[0024] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device 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 description below.

[0025] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further understand the technical concept of the present invention, so the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to only the matters shown in such drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment; [Figure 3a] 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3b] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3c] 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3d]1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3e] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exploded state of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3f] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exploded state of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4a] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a switch according to an embodiment. [Figure 4b] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a switch according to an embodiment. [Figure 4c] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a switch in an un-energized state according to one embodiment. [Figure 4d] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a switch in a pressurized state according to one embodiment. [Figure 5a] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a switch in an un-energized state according to one embodiment. [Figure 5b] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a switch in a pressurized state according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar components will be given the same reference numbers regardless of the drawing numbers, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0028] The suffixes "module" and "section" used in the following description for components are given or used interchangeably solely for the convenience of writing the specification, and do not have any distinct meanings or roles in themselves.

[0029] Furthermore, in the description of the present embodiments disclosed herein, if a detailed description of related publicly known technologies is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, the attached drawings are merely for facilitating an understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and the technical ideas disclosed herein should not be limited by the attached drawings, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included within the ideas and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0030] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe multiple elements, but the elements are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0031] When a component is described as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly coupled or connected to the other component, and that there may be other components in between. On the other hand, when a component is described as being "directly coupled" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0032] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can easily understand and practice the present invention. However, as the present invention may be embodied in many different forms, it is not limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0035] 1 and 2 each show an aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment.

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a body 10 and a cartridge 19 .

[0037] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one of a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be disposed inside the body 10. A cartridge 19, which is an aerosol generating product, may be attached to the body 10. A user can inhale the aerosol by biting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge 19.

[0038] In one embodiment, cartridge 19 can contain an aerosol-forming material in an internal chamber 20. The aerosol-forming material can be in any one of a liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel state. The aerosol-forming material may include a liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing material having volatile tobacco aroma components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco material.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cartridge 19 may be detachably coupled to the body 10. The cartridge 19 is attached to the body 10 by being inserted into the body 10. The body 10 is formed with a structure that allows outside air to flow into the body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that has flowed into the body 10 passes through the cartridge 19 and flows into the user's oral cavity via the airflow channel 23.

[0040] In one embodiment, cartridge 19 includes a chamber 20 that contains an aerosol-generating substance. A liquid transfer means 25 for impregnating the aerosol-generating substance may be disposed inside chamber 20. Liquid transfer means 25 may include a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0041] In one embodiment, the heater 24 may be disposed in the cartridge 19 or the body 10. Although the drawings show the heater 24 disposed inside the cartridge 19, the heater 24 is not limited to this, and the heater 24 may be provided in the body 10 and disposed separably from the cartridge 19. The heater 24 includes an electrically conductive track, and the electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may have a coil structure that wraps around the liquid transmission means 25. Alternatively, the heater 24 may be formed in a structure that contacts a portion of the liquid transmission means 25.

[0042] In one embodiment, the heater 24 can generate an aerosol. The aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means 25 with the heater 24. The generated aerosol is inhaled into the user's oral cavity through the airflow channel 23.

[0043] In one embodiment, the airflow channel 23 can be provided in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel 23 can communicate the outside of the cartridge with the atomization space in which the heater 24 or the liquid transmitting means 25 is disposed. One end of the airflow channel 23 is open to the atomization space in which the heater 24 or the liquid transmitting means 25 is disposed, and the other end of the airflow channel 23 communicates with the mouthpiece.

[0044] For example, with reference to Figure 1, the airflow channel 23 may extend along the length of the cartridge 19 on one side of the chamber 20 of the cartridge 19. Alternatively, with reference to Figure 2, for example, the airflow channel 23 may extend through the chamber 20 of the cartridge 19 and along the length of the cartridge 19.

[0045] In one embodiment, the battery 11 can provide power to operate the components of the aerosol generating device. The battery 11 can be a power source or a power supply. The battery 11 can provide power to at least one of the controller 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 24.

[0046] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the control unit 12 may control the operation of at least one of the battery 11, the sensor 13, and the cartridge 19.

[0047] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The at least one processor may be implemented as an array of logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. The at least one processor may also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 includes a memory. The memory may be operatively connected to at least one processor, and the memory may store executable instructions. The at least one processor can control the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 by executing the instructions stored in the memory.

[0049] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generating device. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device and determine whether the aerosol generating device is in an operable state.

[0050] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can analyze the results detected by the sensor 13 and control the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 12 may control the power supplied to the heater 24 so that the operation of the heater 24 is started or stopped based on the results detected by the sensor 13.

[0051] For example, the control unit 12 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 24 and the time for which the power is supplied based on the results detected by the sensor 13 so that the heater 24 can heat up to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0052] In one embodiment, the sensor 13 includes at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, a cartridge detection sensor, and a motion detection sensor. For example, the sensor 13 may detect at least one of the temperature of the heater 24, the temperature of the battery 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10.

[0053] For example, the sensor 13 may detect a puff by a user. For example, the sensor 13 may detect whether a cartridge is attached. For example, the sensor 13 may detect the movement of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0054] Figure 3a is an oblique view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment, Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment, Figures 3c and 3d are each a cross-sectional oblique view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment, Figure 3e is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment in an exploded state, and Figure 3f is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment in an exploded state.

[0055] Referring to Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e and 3f, an aerosol generating device 100 according to one embodiment (e.g., the aerosol generating device 1 of Figure 1 or 2) includes a first housing 111 and a second housing 112.

[0056] In the following description, overlapping content with the above content will be omitted, and it goes without saying that in the electronic device, some configurations and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that those skilled in the art can easily understand with reference to the following drawings and description. Furthermore, in the electronic device, at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments may be combined unless it is clearly technically impossible.

[0057] In one embodiment, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 may form the exterior of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 may house other components of the aerosol generating device 100 inside and protect them from the outside. The first housing 111 and the second housing 112 may be detachably coupled to each other.

[0058] For example, the first housing 111 may be a main body or body (e.g., body 10 in FIG. 1 or 2) of the aerosol generating device 100. The second housing 112 may be a sub-body or cartridge (e.g., cartridge 19 in FIG. 1 or 2).

[0059] In one embodiment, the cover 113 may surround at least a portion of the outer periphery of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. The cover 113 may be a separate component that can be separated from the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. Alternatively, the cover 113 may be a continuous component of the first housing 111. The cover 113 may assist in connecting the first housing 111 and the second housing 112.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first housing 111 can house at least one of the battery 105 (e.g., battery 11 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2), the control unit 107 (e.g., control unit 12 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2), the heater 120 (e.g., heater 24 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2), and the wick 121 (e.g., liquid transmission means 25 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2).

[0061] In one embodiment, the battery 105 can provide the power necessary for the components of the aerosol generating device 100 to operate. The control unit 107 can control the operation of at least one of the components of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0062] In one embodiment, the heater 120 may be disposed in the first housing 111. An atomization space 115 is provided inside the first housing 111. The heater 120 is disposed in the atomization space 115. The heater 120 heats the wick 121. The heater 120 may be attached to the wick 121.

[0063] In one embodiment, the wick 121 is disposed in the atomization space 115. The upper part of the wick 121 has a shape that protrudes from the atomization space 115 to the upper side of the first housing 111. The wick 121 can inhale a liquid-phase substance or an aerosol-forming substance.

[0064] In one embodiment, the terminal 126 is electrically connected to the heater 120. The terminal 126 supplies power to the heater 120. The terminal 126 may be disposed inside the first housing 111.

[0065] In one embodiment, the heater 120 can be electrically connected to the battery 105 via the terminal 126. The heater 120 generates heat when power is supplied from the battery 105. The heater 120 can be a resistive heater.

[0066] In one embodiment, the first housing 111 includes a first aerosol flow path 119 that communicates with the atomization space 115. The first aerosol flow path 119 can communicate from the atomization space 115 to the outside of the first housing 111. The first aerosol flow path 119 transfers the aerosol generated in the atomization space 115 to the outside of the first housing 111. For example, the first aerosol flow path 119 may communicate with a second aerosol flow path 129 of the second housing 112 to transfer the aerosol to the second housing 112.

[0067] In one embodiment, second housing 112 may include at least one of chamber 127 (e.g., chamber 20 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2) and airflow channel 131 (e.g., airflow channel 23 in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2). Second housing 112 may store an aerosol-generating substance in chamber 127. Chamber 127 may be a reservoir.

[0068] In one embodiment, mouthpiece 130 may be disposed above second housing 112 (e.g., in the +Z direction). Alternatively, mouthpiece 130 may cover the top of second housing 112. Mouthpiece 130 includes an intake port 135 that communicates with the outside of second housing 112.

[0069] In one embodiment, the airflow channel 131 can communicate with the second aerosol flow path 129 and the inlet 135. The airflow channel 131 is physically separated from the chamber 127. The inlet 135 is where the aerosol generated in the atomization space 115 is delivered from the airflow channel 131.

[0070] In one embodiment, first housing 111 may be detachably coupled to second housing 112. For example, second housing 112 may be inserted above first housing 111 (e.g., in the +Z direction). When first housing 111 and second housing 112 are coupled, first aerosol flow path 119 and second aerosol flow path 129 are communicated with each other.

[0071] In one embodiment, when second housing 112 is coupled to first housing 111, second housing 112 can provide stored aerosol-generating material to wick 121. For example, when first housing 111 and second housing 112 are coupled, wick 121 may be directly or indirectly connected to chamber 127.

[0072] In one embodiment, the wick 121 can absorb the aerosol-generating substance supplied from the second housing 112. The heater 120 can heat the wick 121 that has absorbed the aerosol-generating substance, thereby generating an aerosol in the atomization space 115.

[0073] In one embodiment, when the second housing 112 is coupled to the first housing 111, the second aerosol flow path 129 and the first aerosol flow path 119 can communicate with each other. A user can bite the mouthpiece 130 and inhale air through the inhalation port 135. The aerosol formed in the atomization space 115 passes through the first aerosol flow path 119, the second aerosol flow path 129, and the airflow channel 131 and is delivered to the inhalation port 135.

[0074] In one embodiment, first housing 111 and second housing 112 may be replaced independently. For example, the cycle at which the aerosol-generating material stored in second housing 112 is consumed may differ from the appropriate replacement cycle for first housing 111. A user may replace only second housing 112 or only first housing 111.

[0075] For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol-generating material stored in second housing 112 may be shorter than the appropriate replacement cycle of first housing 111. If second housing 112 is replaced multiple times, first housing 111 may be replaced only once. This allows the user to use first housing 111 for a longer period of time, and reduces the cost of replacing some components.

[0076] In one embodiment, first sealing member 151 can be disposed on the upper surface (e.g., the surface in the +Z direction) of first housing 111. First sealing member 151 may extend upward. At least a partial area of ​​the upper surface of first sealing member 151 is open to form first aerosol flow path 119. First aerosol flow path 119 is in communication with the inside of first housing 111 (e.g., atomization space 115).

[0077] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the wick 121. For example, the wick 121 may be arranged below the first sealing member 151. The first sealing member 151 may form the upper surface of the atomization space 115.

[0078] In one embodiment, the case 155 is disposed to surround at least a portion of the wick 121. The case 155 is coupled to the first sealing member 151, and an atomization space 115 is formed between the first sealing member 151 and the case 155.

[0079] In one embodiment, the terminal 126 may be fixed to the bottom surface of the case 155. The terminal 126 protrudes upward from the case 155 toward the atomization space 115 and is connected to the heater 120. The terminals 126 may be provided in pairs, horizontally spaced apart from each other.

[0080] In one embodiment, the air inlet 155a can communicate with the outside of the first housing 111. The air inlet 155a supplies air to the atomization space 115. The air inlet 155a may be formed in the bottom of the case 155.

[0081] In one embodiment, a plurality of airflow inlets 155a may be formed to form a multi-hole shape. The airflow inlets 155a may be horizontally spaced apart from the terminal 126. Alternatively, the airflow inlets 155a may be formed by opening a lateral wall of the case 155 and / or a side wall of the first sealing member 151. The first aerosol flow path 119 may be formed at a position opposite the airflow inlets 155a.

[0082] In one embodiment, wick 121 includes first wick 121a and second wick 121b. First wick 121a is disposed in atomization space 115 between case 155 and first sealing member 151. Second wick 121b may protrude upward from first wick 121a. However, this is merely an example, and wick 121 may be realized in various shapes.

[0083] In one embodiment, second wick 121b may be disposed to penetrate first sealing member 151. Second wick 121b may be exposed to the outside of first housing 111. Second wick 121b is a region through which the aerosol-generating substance is transferred from second housing 112.

[0084] In one embodiment, the heater 120 can be coupled to the first core portion 121a. For example, the heater 120 can be insert-coupled to the lower surface (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction) of the first core portion 121a. The heater 120 heats the first core portion 121a.

[0085] In the embodiment, the first sealing member 151 may cover the upper surface of the case 155. The first sealing member 151 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member 151 may be made of a rubber or silicone material.

[0086] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 includes a sealing surface 151a. The sealing surface 151a may have a shape that surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the second core portion 121b of the core 121.

[0087] In one embodiment, the wick 121 may be formed of a porous rigid body that absorbs the aerosol-generating substance. For example, the wick 121 may be formed of a porous ceramic. The wick 121 has greater rigidity and heat resistance than a cotton material. The wick 121 is made of a material that is not deformed or that undergoes minimal deformation. In addition, the durability of the wick 121 is improved, allowing for an increased replacement cycle for the first housing 111 to which the wick 121 is coupled.

[0088] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a may extend elongatedly in one horizontal direction (e.g., the X-axis direction). The first core portion 121a may have a hexahedral shape. The upper and lower surfaces of the first core portion 121a may be formed substantially horizontally. The side surfaces of the first core portion 121a may be formed between the upper and lower surfaces.

[0089] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b may protrude upward from the center of the upper surface of the first core portion 121a. The second core portion 121b may extend vertically (for example, in the +Z direction). One core 121 includes two second core portions 121b. The two second core portions 121b may be spaced apart from each other.

[0090] In one embodiment, the lower surface of the second core portion 121b overlaps with the upper surface of the first core portion 121a. The first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b may be formed as a single continuous body, or the first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b may be formed by being joined to each other.

[0091] In one embodiment, the heater 120 may be attached to the first core portion 121a. The heater 120 may form a pattern on the lower surface of the first core portion 121a. For example, the heater 120 may form various patterns along the longitudinal direction of the first core portion 121a.

[0092] In one embodiment, the airflow inlet 155a and the first aerosol passage 119 may be arranged in parallel in the vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction). For example, the airflow inlet 155a may be formed below the atomization space 115. The first aerosol passage 119 may be formed above the atomization space 115. Air flows into the atomization space 115 through the airflow inlet 155a and is discharged to the outside of the atomization space 115 through the first aerosol passage 119. The aerosol generated by heating the wick 121 and the surrounding air can flow toward the first aerosol passage 119.

[0093] In one embodiment, second sealing member 152 may be disposed on the lower surface (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction) of second housing 112. Second sealing member 152 may be disposed to surround at least a partial area of ​​first housing 111 and first sealing member 151 when first housing 111 and second housing 112 are combined. Second sealing member 152 forms second aerosol flow path 129 that is open to the inside.

[0094] In one embodiment, the second sealing member 152 may be a partial region or partial structure of the second housing 112. For example, the second sealing member 152 may be integrally formed with the lower surface of the second housing 112, or may be a partial region surrounding the absorbing member 158 exposed at the lower surface of the second housing 112.

[0095] In one embodiment, chamber hole 127a can communicate with chamber 127. Chamber hole 127a can be formed in the lower portion of chamber 127. The aerosol-generating substance stored in chamber 127 is transferred to wick 121 through chamber hole 127a.

[0096] In one embodiment, the absorbing member 158 may be disposed below the chamber hole 127a. The absorbing member 158 may absorb the aerosol-generating material that has passed through the chamber hole 127a. For example, the absorbing member 158 may be made of a felt material. When the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are combined, the absorbing member 158 and the second core 121b may face each other.

[0097] In one embodiment, a protective film may be detachably attached to the lower surface of the absorbent member 158. The protective film is made of a waterproof material. The protective film can prevent leakage of the aerosol-generating substance from the absorbent member 158. Before connecting the second housing 112 to the first housing 111, the user can separate the protective film from the absorbent member 158.

[0098] In one embodiment, when second housing 112 is coupled to first housing 111, second housing 112 can supply aerosol-generating material to wick 121. For example, the aerosol-generating material stored in chamber 127 passes through chamber hole 127a and is absorbed by absorbing member 158. After absorbing the aerosol-generating material, absorbing member 158 contacts second wick 121b and transfers the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material absorbed by second wick 121b spreads to first wick 121a. Heater 120 heats first wick 121a, which has absorbed the aerosol-generating material, to generate aerosol.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 may seal a portion of the wick 121 that protrudes outward from the atomization space 115. If the second housing 112 is coupled to the top of the first housing 111, the first sealing member 151 may seal between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112.

[0100] In one embodiment, the switch 170 is connected to the heater 125. The switch 170 controls the activation of the heater 125. For example, when the switch 170 is turned on or electrically shorted, power and / or an electrical signal may be supplied to the heater 125.

[0101] In one embodiment, the second housing 112 includes a pressure member 160. The pressure member 160 may be formed on one surface (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction) of the second housing 112 that is coupled to the first housing 111. The pressure member 160 has a shape that protrudes in the direction that it is coupled to the first housing 111.

[0102] In one embodiment, the switch 170 is provided in the first housing 111. The first housing 111 may include at least one of an accommodating space 161, an insertion hole 163, and a sealing film 165. The accommodating space 161 is a region of the first housing 111 for accommodating the switch 170.

[0103] In one embodiment, the insertion hole 163 may be formed on one surface (e.g., the surface in the +Z direction) of the second housing 112 that is coupled to the first housing 111. The insertion hole 163 has a shape that opens in the direction that is coupled to the first housing 111.

[0104] In one embodiment, the insertion hole 163 may communicate from the receiving space 161 to the outside of the second housing 112. When the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are coupled together, the pressing member 160 is inserted into the insertion hole 163.

[0105] In one embodiment, the sealing membrane 165 is disposed in the insertion hole 163 or the receiving space 161. The sealing membrane 165 opens the insertion hole 163 when the pressure member 160 is inserted, and seals the insertion hole 163 when the pressure member 160 is pulled out. The sealing membrane 165 may be a movable elastic membrane or an elastic plate.

[0106] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of a switch 170 according to one embodiment, FIG. 4b is a plan view of a switch 170 according to one embodiment, FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of a switch 170 in an unpressurized state according to one embodiment, and FIG. 4d is a cross-sectional view of a switch 170 in a pressurized state according to one embodiment.

[0107] 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d, a switch 170 according to one embodiment includes a first conductive member 171, a second conductive member 172 and a moving member 173.

[0108] In the following description, overlapping details with those described above will be omitted, and it goes without saying that some configurations and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted in the switch 170 and the aerosol generator 100 including the same to the extent that those skilled in the art can easily understand with reference to the following drawings and description. Furthermore, the switch 170 and the aerosol generator 100 including the same may be combined with at least one configuration or feature of the above-described embodiments unless it is clearly technically impossible.

[0109] For example, the switch 170 and the aerosol generating device 100 including the same in Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d may be substantially identical to the switch 170 and the aerosol generating device 100 including the same in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and 3e, or at least some components may be omitted, added or replaced.

[0110] In this document, "substantially" means the same level reflecting typical manufacturing process tolerances or errors, or "substantially" refers to a range including any one of the following ranges, relative to the literally same 0% reference: + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%.

[0111] In one embodiment, the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 are disposed in the first housing 111. At least one of the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may be directly or indirectly connected to the heater 125.

[0112] For example, one of the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may be connected to the heater 125 or the terminal 126, and the other may be connected to the battery 105 or the control unit 107.

[0113] In one embodiment, the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may be spaced apart from each other. The first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may not be directly connected and may be electrically isolated from each other. The first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may be selectively connected by another configuration (e.g., a moving member 173).

[0114] In one embodiment, the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 have a shape that extends along the movement direction of the moving member 173. For example, as shown in the figure, the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may have a connector or terminal shape that protrudes upward (e.g., in the +Z direction). In one embodiment, the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may have substantially the same shape as each other.

[0115] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 may electrically connect the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172. For example, the moving member 173 may be moved by being pressed by the pressing member 160 once the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are coupled together.

[0116] In one embodiment of the present specification, the switch 170 may have a simple and easy structure including only a first conductive member 171, a second conductive member 172, and a moving member 173. For example, if a separate optical sensor or physical sensor other than the switch 170 is used, additional circuit design is required. The switch 170 according to one embodiment of the present specification may improve manufacturing ease and provide manufacturing efficiency and economy.

[0117] The structure of the switch 170 according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, this is for illustrative purposes only and the actual implementation of the switch 170 is not limited thereto.

[0118] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 includes a first contact terminal 173a and a second contact terminal 173b. The first contact terminal 173a may be in constant contact with the first conductive member 171. The second contact terminal 173b comes into contact with the second conductive member 172 when the moving member 173 is moved by the pressing member 160.

[0119] 4c and 4d, the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b may be spaced apart from each other. The first contact terminal 173a may be maintained in contact with the first conductive member 171. The second contact terminal 173b may be spaced apart upward (e.g., in the +Z direction) from the second conductive member 172. When the moving member 173 is pressed, the second contact terminal 173b moves in the moving direction (e.g., the -Z direction) together with the moving member 173 and can come into physical or electrical contact with the second conductive member 172.

[0120] In one embodiment of the present document, through the physical structure of the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b, the switch 170 can structurally control the electrical connection between the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 by moving the movable member 173 using the pressure member 160.

[0121] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 is connected to and supported by the first conductive member 171. As shown in FIG. 4b, the moving member 173 may be structurally connected to the first conductive member 171. The switch 170 does not include a separate coupling component, and the connection and support structure for the moving member 173 can be realized through the structural design of the moving member 173.

[0122] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 includes a guide region 175. The guide region 175 may be disposed so as to surround at least a portion of the first conductive member 171. The guide region 175 has a shape that extends along the direction in which the moving member 173 is moved by the pressure member 160.

[0123] For example, first conductive member 171 may have a pillar shape extending upward (for example, in the +Z direction). Guide region 175 may have a shape that surrounds a partial upper region of first conductive member 171. Guide region 175 can guide the direction in which moving member 173 moves.

[0124] In one embodiment, the first conductive member 171 includes a separation prevention groove 171a. The separation prevention groove 171a may be a groove or a hole extending along the movement direction of the moving member 173 (for example, the Z-axis direction).

[0125] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 includes a protruding region 176. The protruding region 176 may be disposed inside the separation prevention groove 171a. The protruding region 176 limits the movement range of the moving member 173. For example, when the protruding region 176 contacts either one of the two side ends of the separation prevention groove 171a, the movement of the moving member 173 may be limited.

[0126] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 includes a leaf spring region 177. The leaf spring region 177 has a curved shape by extending along the moving direction of the moving member 173. As the moving member 173 is moved by the pressing member 160, the leaf spring region 177 gradually bends, increasing its elastic force. When the pressing member 160 is removed, the moving member 173 is restored to its original position by the elastic force of the leaf spring region 177.

[0127] In one embodiment of the present document, the moving member 173 can generate a restoring force by itself via the leaf spring region 177. By including the leaf spring region 177 in the moving member 173 itself, the switch 170 can be manufactured with improved ease, providing manufacturing efficiency and economy.

[0128] In one embodiment, the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b are provided at the end of the leaf spring region 177. The first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b are formed adjacent to each other at the lower end of the leaf spring region 177. When the moving member 173 is moved by the pressing member 160, the leaf spring region 177 bends and moves downward, and the second contact terminal 173b comes into contact with the second conductive member 172.

[0129] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 includes a pressure surface 174. The pressure surface 174 is provided on the moving member 173 in a direction toward the pressure member 160. The pressure surface 174 may have a substantially flat plate shape or a shape corresponding to the configuration of the distal end of the pressure member 160.

[0130] In one embodiment, the pressure surface 174 has a structure that can be temporarily deformed when pressed by the pressure member 160. For example, as shown in FIG. 4a, one end of the pressure surface 174 may be fixed to the moving member 173, and the other end of the pressure surface 174 may be formed as a free end. When the pressure surface 174 is pressed by the pressure member 160, the pressure surface 174 may be bent or deformed at an angle at a predetermined interval. The pressure surface 174 can absorb at least a portion of the pressure applied by the pressure member 160.

[0131] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 is made of a single continuous conductive material. For example, the above-described components of the moving member 173 may be formed as a single continuous structure. The moving member 173 may not only function as a conductive structure that electrically connects the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172, but also as at least one of an elastic body, a guide member, and a separation prevention member.

[0132] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 is made of a non-conductive or weakly conductive material with at least a partial area coated with a conductive material. For example, the moving member 173 may be made of stainless steel, carbon, or an elastic material. The outer circumferential surface of the moving member 173 may be coated with a conductive material. Alternatively, at least a partial area of ​​the outer circumferential surface of the moving member 173 that electrically connects the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b may be coated with a conductive material.

[0133] FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view of switch 170 in an un-pressurized state according to one embodiment, and FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view of switch 170 in a pressurized state according to one embodiment.

[0134] 5a and 5b, in one embodiment, the switch 170 may further include a conductive region 178b.

[0135] In the following description, overlapping details with those described above will be omitted, and it goes without saying that in the switch 170 and the aerosol generator 100 including the same, some components and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted within the scope that can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art with reference to the following drawings and description. Furthermore, the switch 170 and the aerosol generator 100 including the same may be combined with at least one of the components or features of the previously described embodiments, unless it is clearly technically impossible.

[0136] In one embodiment, the moving member 173 comprises a body 178a and a conductive region 178b. The body 178a may be made of a non-conductive material. The moving member 173 can prevent discharge or short circuit caused by foreign matter or moisture in unnecessary areas, and the durability and corrosion resistance of the moving member 173 are improved.

[0137] In one embodiment, the conductive region 178b may be coupled to the body 178a. The conductive region 178b is made of a conductive material. The first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172 may be selectively connected to each other by the conductive region 178b.

[0138] In one embodiment, when the moving member 173 is moved by the pressing member 160, it simultaneously contacts the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172. For example, referring to Figures 4c and 4d, the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b and a portion of the area connecting them are made up of a conductive area 178b.

[0139] Alternatively, for example, the conductive region 178b may be coupled to the lower surface of the pressure surface 174. When the pressure surface 174 is pressed by the pressure member 160 and moves, the conductive region 178b moves and contacts the first conductive member 171 and the second conductive member 172. In this case, the first contact terminal 173a and the second contact terminal 173b may be omitted.

[0140] In one embodiment, the protruding region 176 may have a hook structure, the end of which is inserted into the anti-detachment groove 171a. For example, before the moving member 173 is pressed by the pressing member 160, the moving member 173 may be pressed upward (e.g., in the +Z direction) by the leaf spring region 177. The end of the hook structure of the protruding region 176 is positioned to contact the upper end of the anti-detachment groove 171a, thereby restricting the movement of the moving member 173.

[0141] In one embodiment of the present document, the protruding region 176 structurally provides a range of movement for the moving member 173 via a hook structure, and can prevent the moving member 173 from being removed from the switch 170 or being inserted too far.

[0142] 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 may be used in combination with or in combination with each other in their respective configurations or functions.

[0143] For example, it means that a specific embodiment and / or configuration A illustrated in a drawing can be combined with a different embodiment and / or configuration B illustrated in a drawing. In other words, even if a combination between components is not directly described, it means that they can be combined except for cases where it is described that they cannot be combined.

[0144] The above detailed description should not be construed as limiting in all respects, but should be considered as illustrative. 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. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a first housing containing a heater; a second housing including a chamber for accommodating an aerosol generating material and a pressure member shaped to protrude in a direction coupled to the first housing, the second housing being detachably coupled to the first housing; a switch provided in the first housing and coupled to the heater; The switch is a first conductive member; a second conductive member spaced apart from the first conductive member; An aerosol generating device comprising a moving member that is pressurized by the pressing member and moves when the first housing and the second housing are coupled, and electrically connects the first conductive member and the second conductive member.

2. The moving member is a first contact terminal that is always in contact with the first conductive member; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising a second contact terminal that comes into contact with the second conductive member when the moving member is moved by the pressing member.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the moving member is connected to the first conductive member and supported by the first conductive member.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the moving member is arranged to surround at least a portion of the first conductive member and includes a guide region shaped to extend along the direction of movement caused by the pressure member.

5. the first conductive member includes a separation prevention groove extending along the moving direction of the moving member, The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the movable member is disposed inside the separation prevention groove and includes a protruding region that limits the range of movement of the movable member.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 5 , wherein the protruding region has a hook structure in which an end portion of the protruding region is inserted into the anti-detachment groove.

7. The aerosol generating device described in claim 1, wherein the movable member has a bent shape by extending along the movement direction of the movable member, and includes a leaf spring region that gradually bends and increases its elastic force as the movable member is moved by the pressure member.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the moving member is provided on one side facing the pressing member and includes a pressing surface having a structure that can be temporarily deformed when pressed by the pressing member.

9. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the moving member is made of a single continuous conductive material.

10. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the moving member is made of a structure coated with a conductive material.

11. The aerosol generation device according to claim 1 , wherein the first conductive member and the second conductive member have a shape extending along the direction of movement of the moving member.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the first conductive member and the second conductive member have substantially the same shape as each other.

13. The first housing includes: an accommodation space in which the switch is accommodated; an insertion hole communicating from the receiving space to the outside of the first housing and into which the pressing member is inserted when the first housing and the second housing are coupled; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , further comprising a sealing membrane that opens the insertion hole when the pressurizing member is inserted and seals the insertion hole when the pressurizing member is pulled out.

14. The moving member is a body made of a non-conductive material; 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, comprising a conductive region coupled to the body.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 14 , wherein the conductive region simultaneously contacts the first conductive member and the second conductive member when the moving member is moved by the pressing member.

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