Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body including a battery housing space, a battery detachably coupled to the battery housing space, a first terminal disposed in the battery housing space and electrically connected to the battery when the battery is coupled to the battery housing space, and a first sealing member disposed to surround the first terminal and to prevent foreign matter from entering the first terminal, the battery includes a battery terminal that contacts the first terminal and a battery sealing member surrounding the battery terminal, the first sealing member includes a movable first cover, and the battery sealing member may include a movable second cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device including a detachable battery.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative methods to overcome the disadvantages of conventional cigarettes. For example, there has been an increasing demand for a system that generates an aerosol by heating a cigarette (or "aerosol generating article") using an aerosol generating device, rather than a method of generating an aerosol by burning a cigarette.

[0003] An aerosol generating device includes a battery for power supply and a heater that generates heat by power supply, and can generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol generating substance through the heater. In particular, the aerosol generating device uses an integrated battery for miniaturization of the device, but recently, research on an aerosol generating device using a detachable battery to increase user convenience has been actively conducted.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The battery of the aerosol generating device may be damaged or its performance may deteriorate due to exposure to external foreign substances such as moisture or dust. Since the battery of the aerosol generating device is separated from the aerosol generating device for charging or replacement, it may be exposed to the risk of external foreign substances. Also, even when the battery of the aerosol generating device is housed in the aerosol generating device, external foreign substances penetrate into the battery housing space through the gaps of the aerosol generating device, so the battery of the aerosol generating device is still exposed to the risk of external foreign substances.

[0005] Various embodiments of the present invention aim to protect the battery of the aerosol generating device from external foreign substances and prevent damage and / or malfunction of the battery and the aerosol generating device.

[0006] The problems to be solved through embodiments of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the embodiments belong from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body including a battery housing space, a battery detachably coupled to the battery housing space, a first terminal disposed in the battery housing space and electrically connected to the battery when the battery is coupled to the battery housing space, and a first sealing member disposed to surround the first terminal and to prevent foreign matter from entering the first terminal, the battery includes a battery terminal that contacts the first terminal and a battery sealing member surrounding the battery terminal, the first sealing member includes a movable first cover, and the battery sealing member includes a movable second cover. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention can prevent external foreign matter from entering the battery terminals and the terminals on the main body that are electrically connected to the battery terminals, thereby preventing damage to the battery and the aerosol generating apparatus and preventing malfunctions.

[0009] The aerosol generating apparatus according to various embodiments of the present invention prevents external foreign matter from entering the heater terminal and the terminal on the main body that is electrically connected to the heater terminal, thereby preventing damage to the heater and the aerosol generating apparatus and preventing malfunctions.

[0010] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] Figure 1 shows various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 2B] Figure 1 shows various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 2C] Figure 1 shows various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 2D] Figure 1 shows various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 2E] Figure 1 shows various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generating apparatus. [Figure 3] This is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] This is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment. [Figure 5A] This is a drawing illustrating the first sealing member shown in Figure 3 according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B] This is a diagram illustrating the closed state of the first sealing member of Figure 3 according to another embodiment. [Figure 5C] This is a diagram illustrating the open state of the first sealing member in Figure 5B. [Figure 6A] This is a drawing illustrating the first sealing member shown in Figure 4 according to one embodiment. [Figure 6B] This is a diagram illustrating the closed state of the first sealing member of Figure 4 according to another embodiment. [Figure 6C] This is a diagram illustrating the open state of the first sealing member in Figure 6B. [Figure 7A] Figure 3 shows the battery and battery cover before they are connected to the battery housing space. [Figure 7B] Figure 3 shows the battery and battery cover after they have been connected to the battery housing space. [Figure 8A]The drawing shows the battery and the battery cover of FIG. 4 before being coupled to the battery accommodation space. [Figure 8B] The drawing shows the battery and the battery cover of FIG. 4 after being coupled to the battery accommodation space. [Figure 9] The drawing is for explaining a second sealing member according to one embodiment and a sealing member for a heater according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] The block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] An aerosol generating device according to one embodiment includes a main body including a battery accommodation space, a battery detachably coupled to the battery accommodation space, a first terminal disposed in the battery accommodation space and electrically connected to the battery when the battery is coupled to the battery accommodation space, and a first sealing member disposed to surround the first terminal to prevent the inflow of external foreign matter. The battery includes a battery terminal that contacts the first terminal and a sealing member for the battery that surrounds the battery terminal. The first sealing member includes a movable first cover, and the sealing member for the battery includes a movable second cover.

[0013] The first cover closes the first sealing member at a first position, opens the first sealing member at a second position, and is disposed such that the first terminal is exposed.

[0014] The second cover closes the sealing member for the battery at a first position, opens the sealing member for the battery at a second position, and is disposed such that the first terminal is exposed.

[0015] The aerosol generating device further includes a battery cover disposed in an area of the main body to open and close the battery accommodation space.

[0016] The battery cover includes an outer battery cover that forms the outer surface of the battery cover, an inner battery cover formed in the center of the inner surface of the battery cover which presses the battery toward the main body when the battery is coupled to the battery housing space, and a projection arranged along the edge of the inner surface of the battery cover.

[0017] The main body further includes a groove into which the projection is inserted when the battery cover is attached to the main body.

[0018] The main body further includes an elastic member positioned between the projection and the groove when the projection is coupled to the groove, for preventing foreign matter from entering the battery housing space.

[0019] The present invention further includes a heater for heating an aerosol-generating substance according to one embodiment, the main body further including a second terminal electrically connected to the heater and a second sealing member arranged to surround the second terminal and to prevent external foreign matter from entering the second terminal.

[0020] The second sealing member includes a movable third cover.

[0021] The third cover is positioned such that it closes the second sealing member in the first position and opens the second sealing member in the second position, exposing the second terminal.

[0022] The heater includes a heater terminal that contacts the second terminal and a heater sealing member that surrounds the heater terminal.

[0023] The heater sealing member includes a movable cover.

[0024] The terminology used in the embodiments is selected as widely used and general terms as possible, taking into account the function of the present invention, although this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators in the field, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0025] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which is embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0026] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of such prior art is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are merely for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and it should be understood that the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein and include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0027] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but the components are not limited by such terms. The terms are simply used to distinguish one component from another.

[0028] When it is mentioned that one component is "linked" or "connected" to another component, it must be understood that it is either directly linked to the other component, or connected but with other components in between. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that one component is "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it must be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0029] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. However, the present invention can be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] The embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings, but regardless of the reference numerals used in the drawings, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0033] The aerosol generating device 100 can generate and provide aerosols.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, an aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment may include a housing 101. The housing 101 forms the overall exterior of the aerosol generator 100 and may contain internal space. Various components for generating and providing aerosols may be arranged inside the housing 101.

[0035] The housing 101 may include a containment space 100h into which the aerosol product 200 is inserted, a slider 102 for opening or closing the containment space 100h, and a battery containment space 110 into which the battery 111 is housed.

[0036] The containment space 100h can provide a space into which the aerosol product 200 is detachably inserted (or "bound"). The aerosol product 200 may include an aerosol-generating substance that generates an aerosol when heated by a heater. The containment space 100h can provide a space that is open toward the outside of the housing 101 so that the aerosol product 200 can be inserted.

[0037] The containment space 100h may be recessed toward the interior of the housing 101 so that at least a portion of the aerosol product 200 can be inserted into it. The recessed depth of the containment space 100h may correspond to the length of the region in the aerosol product 200 that contains the aerosol-generating substance and / or medium. A portion of the aerosol product 200 may be inserted toward the interior of the housing 101, while another portion of the aerosol product 200 may protrude toward the exterior of the housing 101. The user may put the portion of the aerosol product 200 exposed toward the exterior of the housing 101 into their mouth and inhale the air containing the aerosol.

[0038] The slider 102 can open or close the containment space 100h. The slider 102 is movably positioned in the housing 101 and can either expose the containment space 100h to the outside of the aerosol generator 100 or cover the containment space 100h so that it is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 100. When the slider 102 is positioned in the first region of the housing 101, it can open the containment space 100h, into which the aerosol product 200 can be inserted. The slider 102 can move from the first region to the second region of the housing 101 to close the containment space 100h. By positioning the slider 102 in the second region of the housing 101 and not exposing the containment space 100h to the outside, the containment space 100h can be protected from external impacts or external foreign matter.

[0039] The battery housing space 110 can accommodate a battery 111 for supplying power to a heater for heating the aerosol product 200. The battery housing space 110 is formed on one side of the housing 101 (for example, the side facing the +x axis) and can accommodate the battery 111. The location where the battery housing space 110 is formed is not limited to this, and the battery housing space 110 may be formed in an internal area of ​​the housing 101.

[0040] The battery 111 is detachably coupled to the battery housing space 110 and can supply power for the operation of the components of the aerosol generator 100. The battery 111 housed in the battery housing space 110 is coupled to the battery housing space 110 and can be electrically connected to the components of the aerosol generator 100 (e.g., heater, processor). The battery housing space 110 is provided with terminals for electrically connecting to the battery 111, and the battery 111 may be provided with terminals for supplying power to the aerosol generator 100 through the terminals provided in the battery housing space 110. The battery 111 can supply power for the operation of the components of the aerosol generator 100 through the terminals provided in the battery 111 and the terminals provided in the battery housing space 110.

[0041] The battery 111 can be charged while attached to the battery housing space 110 and / or while detached from the battery housing space 110. With the battery 111 housed in the battery housing space 110, the aerosol generator 100 is electrically connected to an external charger, and power supplied from the external charger is supplied to the battery 111 through terminals provided in the battery housing space 110 and terminals provided on the battery 111, thereby charging the battery 111. The charging method for the battery 111 is not limited to this. The battery 111 can be detached from the battery housing space 110 and connected to an external charger independently of the aerosol generator 100, or housed in the external charger. The battery 111 can be charged by power supplied from an external charger through terminals provided on the battery 111.

[0042] As the battery 111 is used, its chemical and / or physical properties deteriorate. For example, as the battery 111 is used, its internal resistance increases and its usable capacity decreases. A battery 111 that has reached the end of its life needs to be replaced with a new battery 111 at any given time. A battery 111 that has reached the end of its life can be passively and / or automatically detached from the aerosol generator 100, and a new battery 111 can be newly attached to the aerosol generator 100.

[0043] Although not shown, the aerosol generator 100 may further include a battery cover detachably coupled to the housing 101 to protect the battery 111. With the battery cover detached from the housing 101, the battery housing space 110 and at least a portion of the battery may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator 100. Through the open battery housing space 110, an expired battery 111 can be replaced with a new one. The battery cover can be attached to the housing 101 to close the battery housing space 110. The battery 111 housed in the closed battery housing space 110 is protected from external foreign matter and can be secured inside the battery housing space 110 by the battery cover. The aerosol generator 100 may further include fixing members positioned in the battery housing space 110 and / or the battery cover for securing the battery 111 to the battery housing space 110. The aerosol generator 100 can prevent the battery 111 from being easily separated from the aerosol generator 100 by external physical impact by using a fixing member to secure the battery 111 in the battery housing space 110.

[0044] When the battery 111 is exposed to moisture, the electrical circuit within the battery 111 is short-circuited and damaged. Furthermore, when the battery 111 is exposed to external foreign matter such as dust, the degree of electrical connection between the battery 111 and the aerosol generator 100 decreases. Damage to the battery 111 and / or deterioration of its performance are directly linked to damage to and / or deterioration of the aerosol generator 100. The present invention aims to provide an aerosol generator that protects the battery 111 from external moisture and / or dust.

[0045] Figures 2A to 2E are various examples illustrating the configuration of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 2A to 2E, the aerosol generator 100 may include a battery 111, a processor 130, and heaters 120a to 120e. The components of the aerosol generator 100 are identical or similar to at least one of the components of the aerosol generator 100 shown in Figures 1 to 2, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0046] The aerosol generator 100 can be embodied in a variety of ways. For example, the aerosol generator 100 can utilize an electric resistance heating method or an induction heating method. As another example, the aerosol generator 100 may be embodied further to include a vaporizer or a cartridge. Figures 2A to 2E disclose components of the aerosol generator 100 relating to embodiments of the present invention, and a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to embodiments of the present invention will understand that the aerosol generator 100 may further include components other than those shown in Figures 2A to 2E.

[0047] Figure 2A is a diagram illustrating an example of an electrical resistance type aerosol generator 100. Referring to Figure 2A, the aerosol generator 100 may include a battery 111, a heater 120a, and a processor 130.

[0048] An aerosol product 200 can be inserted into the internal containment space of the aerosol generator 100 (for example, the containment space 100h in Figure 1). Once the aerosol product 200 is inserted into the aerosol generator 100, the aerosol generator 100 can generate an aerosol from the aerosol product 200 by heating it using the heater 120a. The generated aerosol is transmitted to the user by passing through the aerosol product 200, so the user can inhale the aerosol product 200.

[0049] Heater 120a can be heated by power supplied from battery 111. Heater 120a is an electrical resistive heater. For example, heater 120a includes a conductive track, and heater 120a can be heated by current flowing through the conductive track.

[0050] The conductive track of the heater 120a is made of an electrically resistive material, the heating temperature is determined by the power consumption of the resistor, and the resistance value of the conductive track can be set based on the power consumption of the resistor of the conductive track. The resistance value of the conductive track can be set in various ways depending on the constituent material, length, width, thickness, or pattern of the electrically resistive material.

[0051] Due to its temperature coefficient of resistance characteristic, the internal resistance of a conductive track increases as the temperature rises. For example, the temperature and resistance of a conductive track can be proportional within a given temperature range. Utilizing this principle, a heater 120a made of a conductive track can heat the aerosol product 200 using an electrical resistance method.

[0052] Conductive tracks can be made from tungsten, gold, platinum, silver, copper, nickel-palladium, or combinations thereof. Conductive tracks may also be doped with appropriate doping materials and may include alloys.

[0053] The shape of the heater 120a can be varied, such as tubular, plate-shaped, needle-shaped, or rod-shaped. Multiple heaters 120a may also be arranged. The heater 120a can be inserted into the aerosol product 200 and used in an internal heating method to heat the inside of the aerosol product 200.

[0054] The battery 111 may be separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 100. When the battery 111 is attached to the aerosol generator 100, power is supplied from the battery 111 to the heater 120a for heating operation, and the temperature of the conductive track may be controlled.

[0055] The processor 130 can control the heating operation of the heater 120a by controlling the power supplied to the heater 120a. For example, the processor 130 can control the temperature at which the aerosol product 200 is heated by the heater 120a using a temperature profile.

[0056] Figures 2B and 2C are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generator 100 further equipped with vaporizers 125b and 125c as an example. Referring to Figures 2B and 2C, the aerosol generator 100 is the aerosol generator 100 of Figure 2A, further including vaporizers 125b and 125c.

[0057] Figure 2B shows that the steamer 125b and heater 120b are arranged in a single line, while Figure 2C shows that the steamer 125c and heater 120c are arranged in parallel. In other words, the aerosol generator 100 can be distinguished by the arrangement of the steamers 125b and 125c.

[0058] Heaters 120b and 120c may be heated by power supplied from battery 111. Heaters 120b and 120c are electrically resistive heaters and may include, for example, conductive tracks.

[0059] Unlike heater 120a in Figure 2A, heaters 120b and 120c in Figures 2B and 2C can be implemented as an external heating method, where heaters are placed on the outer periphery of the aerosol product 200 and heat the outer surface of the aerosol product 200.

[0060] The vaporizers 125b and 125c heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, which can then be transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 200. That is, the aerosol generated by the vaporizers 125b and 125c is transported along the airflow passage of the aerosol generator 100, and the airflow passage may be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizers 125b and 125c is transmitted to the user through the aerosol product 200.

[0061] The vaporizers 125b and 125c may include a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element (or vaporization element). However, each of the liquid storage unit, liquid transfer means, and heating element may be an independent module and located at another location within the aerosol generator 100, not inside the vaporizers 125b and 125c.

[0062] The liquid storage section can store liquid compositions. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances, including volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage section may be manufactured to detach from / attach to the vaporizers 125b, 125c, or it may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizers 125b, 125c. For example, the liquid composition may include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. The liquid composition may also include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0063] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage section to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be a wick made of cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic, but is not limited to these.

[0064] The heating elements provided within the vaporizers 125b and 125c are for heating (vaporizing) the liquid composition transmitted by the liquid transmission means. For example, the heating elements may be metal heating wires, metal heating plates, ceramic heaters, etc., but are not limited to these. Alternatively, the heating elements may consist of conductive filaments such as nichrome wire and be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid transmission means. The heating elements are heated by an electric current supply, and heat is transferred to the liquid composition in contact with the heating elements, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated. For this reason, the vaporizers 125b and 125c may also be referred to by other terms such as cartomizer or atomizer.

[0065] The battery 111 may be separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 100. When the battery 111 is attached to the aerosol generator 100, power may be supplied from the battery 111 to the heaters 120b, 120c and the vaporizers 125b, 125c for heating operation.

[0066] The processor 130 can control the heating operation of the heaters 120b, 120c and the vaporizers 125b, 125c by controlling the power supplied to them. For example, the processor 130 can control the heating temperature of the aerosol product 200 by the heaters 120b, 120c and the vaporizers 125b, 125c using a temperature profile.

[0067] Figure 2D is a diagram illustrating an example of an induction heating type aerosol generator 100. Referring to Figure 2D, the aerosol generator 100 may include a heater 120d including a coil 121d and a susceptor 122d, a battery 111, and a processor 130.

[0068] The aerosol generator 100 can generate aerosols by heating the aerosol product 200 contained within the aerosol generator 100 using an induction heating method. The induction heating method refers to a method of heating a magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field by applying an alternating magnetic field that periodically changes direction. Therefore, the aerosol generator 100 can heat the aerosol product 200 by causing the magnetic material to release thermal energy by applying an alternating magnetic field to it, and then transferring the thermal energy released from the magnetic material to the aerosol product 200. Here, the magnetic material that generates heat due to an external magnetic field is a susceptor 122d. The susceptor 122d is provided in the aerosol generator 100. Alternatively, instead of being provided in the aerosol generator 100, the susceptor 122d may be provided inside the aerosol product 200 in the form of a section, thin section, strip, etc.

[0069] The susceptor 122d is made of a ferromagnetic material. For example, the material of the susceptor 122d may include metal or carbon. The material of the susceptor 122d may include at least one of ferrite, ferromagnetic alloy, stainless steel, and aluminum (Al). In addition, the material of the susceptor 122d may include at least one of ceramics such as graphite and zirconia, transition metals such as nickel (Ni) and cobalt (Co), and metalloids such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P).

[0070] The aerosol generator 100 can accommodate the aerosol product 200. The aerosol generator 100 may have a space for accommodating the aerosol product 200. A susceptor 122d may be positioned around the space for accommodating the aerosol product 200. For example, the susceptor 122d may have a cylindrical shape that surrounds the outside of the aerosol product 200. Therefore, when the aerosol product 200 is accommodated in the aerosol generator 100, the aerosol product 200 is housed in the accommodation space of the susceptor 122d, and the susceptor 122d may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the outer surface of the aerosol product 200. However, the shape of the susceptor 122d is not limited to this and can be diverse.

[0071] The heater 120d uses an induction heating method and can heat the aerosol product 200 contained in the aerosol generating device 100 by utilizing a susceptor 122d that generates heat in response to an external magnetic field generated by the coil 121d.

[0072] The coil 121d is arranged to be wound along the outer surface of the susceptor 122d, and an alternating magnetic field can be applied to the susceptor 122d. When power is supplied to the coil 121d from the aerosol generator 100, a magnetic field can be formed in the internal region of the coil 121d. When an alternating current is applied to the coil 121d, the direction of the magnetic field formed inside the coil 121d can be continuously changed. If the susceptor 122d is located inside the coil 121d and is exposed to an alternating magnetic field that changes direction periodically, the susceptor 122d may generate heat, and the cigarette housed in the susceptor 122d may be heated. The shape of the coil 121d is cylindrical, wound along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol product 200, but is not limited thereto, and the coil 121d may be embodied in various types, such as a planar coil.

[0073] The battery 111 can be separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 100. When the battery 111 is attached to the aerosol generator 100, it can, for example, supply power to the coil 121d for the heating operation of the heater 120d.

[0074] The processor 130 can control the heating operation of the heater 120d by controlling the power supplied to the coil 121d. For example, the processor 130 can control the heating temperature of the aerosol product 200 by inductive heating of the susceptor 122d by adjusting the strength of the magnetic field induced by the coil 121d using a temperature profile.

[0075] Figure 2E is a diagram illustrating an aerosol generating device 100 equipped with an interchangeable cartridge 210e containing an aerosol generating substance 210, as an example.

[0076] The aerosol generator 100 in Figure 2E includes a cartridge 210e containing an aerosol generating substance 210 and a main body 220e that supports the cartridge 210e. The hardware configuration included in the aerosol generator 100 in Figure 1 can be divided into the main body 220e and the cartridge 210e.

[0077] The cartridge 210e can be attached to the main body 220e with the aerosol-generating substance 210 contained inside. The cartridge 210e can be attached to the main body 220e by inserting a portion of the cartridge 210e into the receptacle of the main body 220e.

[0078] Cartridge 210e contains an aerosol-generating substance 210 in liquid composition, but is not limited thereto; it may contain an aerosol-generating substance 210 in any one state, such as solid, gas, or gel. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance that includes volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0079] The heater 120e, located inside the cartridge 210e, performs a heating operation based on an electrical signal or wireless signal transmitted from the main unit 220e. As a result, the aerosol-generating substance 210 inside the cartridge 210e is vaporized by the heating of the heater 120e, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0080] The heater 120e generates heat through electrical resistance to heat the aerosol-generating substance transmitted to the liquid transmission means. It is embodied in conductive filaments of metal materials such as copper, nickel, or tungsten, or ceramic heating elements, and may be wound around the liquid transmission means or positioned adjacent to the liquid transmission means.

[0081] The battery 111 may be separated from or attached to the aerosol generator 100. When the battery 111 is attached to the aerosol generator 100, power may be supplied from the battery 111 to the heater 120e for heating operation.

[0082] The processor 130 can control the heating operation of the heater 120e by controlling the power supplied to the heater 120e. For example, the processor 130 can control the heating temperature of the aerosol-generating substance 210 by the heater 120e using a temperature profile.

[0083] The aerosol generating device 100 is embodied in at least one of the aerosol generating devices 100 shown in Figures 2A to 2E, but is not necessarily limited to this and can be embodied in other ways.

[0084] The aerosol generators 100 shown in Figures 2A to 2E can all utilize a battery 111 that is detachably connected to the aerosol generator 100 as a power source. The battery 111 can be detached from the aerosol generator 100 for charging or replacement, and a charged battery or a new battery can be attached to the aerosol generator 100.

[0085] When the battery 111 is attached to or detached from the aerosol generator 100, the terminals on both the aerosol generator 100 and the battery 111 may be exposed to the outside. The terminals for electrically connecting the aerosol generator 100 and the battery 111 are vulnerable to external foreign matter such as moisture or dust. The following describes in detail the configuration and method for protecting the aerosol generator 100 and the battery 111 from external foreign matter.

[0086] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0087] Referring to Figure 3, an aerosol generator according to one embodiment (for example, the aerosol generator 100 in Figures 1 and 2A to 2E) may include a main body 300, a battery 400, and a battery cover 500. The components included in an aerosol generator according to one embodiment are not limited to those shown in Figure 3, and the components of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3 may be replaced by other components, or additional components may be added to the aerosol generator. For example, at least one of the components of the aerosol generator in Figure 3 is identical or similar to the components of the aerosol generator 100 in Figures 1 and 2A to 2E.

[0088] The main body 300 forms part of the external appearance of the aerosol generator, and components of the aerosol generator may be arranged on the main body 300. For example, the main body 300 may, but is not limited to, a heater for heating the aerosol generating material (e.g., heaters 120a to 120e in Figures 2A to 2E) or a processor for controlling the operation of the aerosol generator (e.g., processor 130 in Figures 2A to 2E).

[0089] The main body 300 may further include a battery housing space 310 for housing a battery 400. The battery housing space 310 is formed on one side of the main body 300 and can accommodate the battery 400. For example, the battery housing space 310 may be formed on the side of the main body 300 facing the +x axis, as shown in Figure 3. However, the side on which the battery housing space 310 is formed is not limited to this, and as another example, the battery housing space 310 may be formed on the side of the main body 300 facing the +y axis. The battery housing space 310 may be recessed inward from the main body 300 to accommodate the battery 400. The recessed depth of the battery housing space 310 may correspond to the thickness of the battery 400 (e.g., the length of the battery 400 in the x-axis direction).

[0090] One or more first terminals 320 may be located on one side of the battery housing space 310 (for example, the side facing the +z axis). The first terminals 320 are terminals for the aerosol generator to be powered by a battery 400 housed in the battery housing space 310. One side of the first terminals 320 (for example, the side facing the +z axis) may be electrically connected to internal components of the main body 300 (for example, a heater, a processor, etc.). The other side of the first terminals 320 (for example, the side facing the -z axis) may be exposed to the outside of the main body 300.

[0091] The first terminal 320, exposed to the outside of the main body 300, can come into contact with the battery terminal 420 of the battery 400 when the battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310. The first terminal 320 of the main body 300 is electrically connected to the battery terminal 420 of the battery 400, and the components of the aerosol generator can be powered by the battery 400. The first terminal 320 may include at least one material from among copper, aluminum, gold, and silver. For example, the surface of the first terminal 320 may be plated with gold or silver. However, it is not limited thereto, and the material of the first terminal 320 is any material that is used to electrically connect the first terminal 320 to the battery terminal 420.

[0092] Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which two first terminals 320 are arranged on the side of the battery housing space 310, the arrangement structure and number of one or more first terminals 320 are not limited thereto.

[0093] A first sealing member 330 may be further arranged in the battery housing space 310, surrounding the first terminal 320, to prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery housing space 310 into the first terminal 320. The shape of the first sealing member 330 will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 5A to 5C.

[0094] The battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310 and can supply power to components located inside the main body 300. The battery 400 is a rectangular prism with a cross-section (e.g., a cross-section by the xy plane) that is rectangular or a rectangle with rounded edges, but is not limited to this.

[0095] The battery 400 may have one or more battery terminals 420. The battery terminals 420 are terminals for supplying power to the internal components of the main body 300. The arrangement and number of battery terminals 420 may correspond to the arrangement and number of first terminals 320. When the battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310, each of the battery terminals 420 on the battery 400 can make contact with each of the first terminals 320 on the main body 300.

[0096] The battery terminal 420 may include at least one material from among copper, aluminum, gold, and silver. For example, the surface of the battery terminal 420 may be plated with gold or silver. However, the material of the battery terminal 420 is not limited to this, and any material that is used to electrically connect the battery terminal 420 and the first terminal 320 is considered to be such.

[0097] Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which two battery terminals 420 are arranged on the side of the battery 400, the arrangement structure and number of one or more battery terminals 420 are not limited thereto.

[0098] The battery 400 may also be provided with a battery sealing member 430 positioned to surround the battery terminals 420, preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery terminals 420. The battery sealing member 430 can prevent the battery terminals 420 from being exposed to external foreign matter and thus damaged or malfunctioning.

[0099] The battery cover 500 can be detachably attached to the main unit 300 and protect the battery 400. When the battery cover 500 is detached from or separated from the main unit 300, it can open the battery housing space 310, and when the battery cover 500 is attached to or connected to the main unit 300, it can close the battery housing space 310.

[0100] When the battery cover 500 is removed from the main unit 300, the battery housing space 310 may be exposed to the outside of the main unit 300. A battery 400 that has reached the end of its lifespan or requires charging can be separated from the main unit 300 through the exposed battery housing space 310, and a new or charged battery 400 can be connected to the main unit 300 through the exposed battery housing space 310.

[0101] When the battery cover 500 is attached to the main unit 300, the battery cover 500 covers the battery housing space 310, preventing the battery 400 housed in the battery housing space 310 from being exposed to the outside. By preventing moisture and / or dust and other external foreign matter from entering the battery housing space 310, the battery cover 500 can prevent the battery terminals 420 of the battery 400 and / or the first terminal 320 of the main unit 300 from being exposed to external foreign matter and being damaged or malfunctioning.

[0102] The main body 300 may further include an elastic member 350 to prevent external foreign matter from flowing into the battery housing space 310 through a gap. Since the battery cover 500 is detachably connected to the main body 300, a gap is formed in the main body 300 at the position where it connects to the battery cover 500, allowing external foreign matter to flow into the battery housing space 310 through this gap. The elastic member 350 can prevent, to the greatest extent possible, external foreign matter from coming into contact with the first terminal 320 and / or battery terminal 420, even if some external foreign matter does enter the battery housing space 310. The specific arrangement structure of the elastic member 350 will be described later in Figures 7A and 7B.

[0103] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a partial configuration of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0104] Referring to Figure 4, other embodiments of aerosol generators (for example, the aerosol generator 100 in Figures 1 and 2A to 2E) may include a main body 300, a battery 400, and a battery cover 500. The aerosol generator shown in Figure 4 differs from the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3 only in the shape and arrangement of the main body 300, battery 400, and battery cover 500, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0105] The main body 300 forms part of the external appearance of the aerosol generator, and components of the aerosol generator may be arranged on the main body 300. For example, the main body 300 may, but is not limited to, a heater for heating the aerosol generating material (e.g., heaters 120a to 120e in Figures 2A to 2E) or a processor for controlling the operation of the aerosol generator (e.g., processor 130 in Figures 2A to 2E).

[0106] The main body 300 may further include a battery housing space 310 for housing a battery 400. The battery housing space 310 is formed in one region of the main body 300 and can accommodate the battery 400. For example, the battery housing space 310 may be formed in the internal space of the main body 300, as shown in Figure 4. The battery housing space 310 may be formed on the side of the main body 300 facing the -z axis and recessed toward the +z axis of the main body 300. The recessed depth of the battery housing space 310 may correspond to the length of the battery 400 (e.g., the length in the z axis direction).

[0107] Although not shown in the diagram, one or more first terminals 320 may be located on one side of the battery housing space 310 (for example, the side facing the +z axis). The first terminals 320 are terminals for the aerosol generator to be powered by a battery 400 housed in the battery housing space 310. One side of the first terminals 320 (for example, the side facing the +z axis) may be electrically connected to internal components of the main body 300 (for example, a heater, a processor, etc.). The other side of the first terminals 320 (for example, the side facing the -z axis) may be exposed to the outside of the main body 300.

[0108] The first terminal 320, exposed to the outside of the main body 300, can come into contact with the battery terminal 420 of the battery 400 when the battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310. The first terminal 320 of the main body 300 is electrically connected to the battery terminal 420 of the battery 400, and the components of the aerosol generator can be powered by the battery 400.

[0109] A first sealing member 330 may be further arranged in the battery housing space 310 so as to surround the first terminal 320, to prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery housing space 310 into the first terminal 320. The shape of the first sealing member 330 will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 6A to 6C.

[0110] The battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310 and can supply power to components located inside the main body 300. Although only cylindrical embodiments of the battery 400 with a circular or elliptical cross-section (e.g., a cross-section in the xy-plane) are shown in the drawings, the shape of the battery 400 is not limited to these. As another example, the battery 400 can also be cylindrical with a rectangular prism on one end, like a candle.

[0111] The battery 400 may have one or more battery terminals 420. The battery terminals 420 are terminals for supplying power to the internal components of the main body 300. The arrangement and number of battery terminals 420 may correspond to the arrangement and number of first terminals 320. When the battery 400 is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space 310, each of the battery terminals 420 on the battery 400 can make contact with each of the first terminals 320 on the main body 300.

[0112] Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which one battery terminal 420 is arranged on the side of the battery 400, the arrangement structure and number of one or more battery terminals 420 are not limited thereto.

[0113] The battery 400 may also be provided with a battery sealing member 430 positioned to surround the battery terminals 420, preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery terminals 420. The battery sealing member 430 can prevent the battery terminals 420 from being exposed to external foreign matter and thus damaged or malfunctioning.

[0114] The battery cover 500 can be detachably attached to the main unit 300 and protect the battery 400. When the battery cover 500 is detached from or separated from the main unit 300, it can open the battery housing space 310, and when the battery cover 500 is attached to or connected to the main unit 300, it can close the battery housing space 310.

[0115] When the battery cover 500 is removed from the main unit 300, the battery housing space 310 may be exposed to the outside of the main unit 300. A battery 400 that has reached the end of its lifespan or requires charging can be separated from the main unit 300 through the exposed battery housing space 310, and a new or charged battery 400 can be connected to the main unit 300 through the exposed battery housing space 310.

[0116] When the battery cover 500 is attached to the main unit 300, the battery cover 500 covers the battery housing space 310, preventing the battery 400 housed in the battery housing space 310 from being exposed to the outside. By preventing moisture and / or dust and other external foreign matter from entering the battery housing space 310, the battery cover 500 can prevent the battery terminals 420 of the battery 400 and / or the first terminal 320 of the main unit 300 from being exposed to external foreign matter and being damaged or malfunctioning.

[0117] The main body 300 may further include an elastic member 350 to prevent external foreign matter from flowing into the battery housing space 310 through a gap. Since the battery cover 500 is detachably connected to the main body 300, a gap is formed in the main body 300 at the position where it connects to the battery cover 500, allowing external foreign matter to flow into the battery housing space 310 through this gap. The elastic member 350 can prevent, to the greatest extent possible, external foreign matter from coming into contact with the first terminal 320 and / or battery terminal 420, even if some external foreign matter does enter the battery housing space 310. The specific arrangement structure of the elastic member 350 will be described later in Figures 8A and 8B.

[0118] Figure 5A is a drawing illustrating the first sealing member of Figure 3 according to one embodiment.

[0119] Referring to Figure 5A, the main body 300 may include one or more first terminals 320 and one or more first sealing members 330. The main body 300 includes a battery housing space recessed toward the interior of the main body 300 (for example, the battery housing space 310 in Figure 3), and one or more first terminals 320 may be located on one side of the battery housing space (for example, the side facing the +z axis).

[0120] One or more first sealing members 330 may be located on one side of the battery housing space where the first terminals 320 are situated, and may be arranged to surround the outer circumferential surface of the first terminals 320. When the battery housing space is viewed in the +z-axis direction, the first sealing members 330 are closed-loop annular shapes with a cross-section such as a circle or rectangle.

[0121] The first sealing member 330 may include an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member 330 may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. The first sealing member 330, which includes an elastic material, can be used to pressurize and seal the outer surface of the first terminal 320.

[0122] The aerosol generator includes a first sealing member 330 surrounding the first terminal 320 of the main body 300, thereby preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the first terminal 320. This prevents the aerosol generator from being damaged or malfunctioning due to exposure to external foreign matter, specifically the first terminal 320 and the aerosol generator electrically connected to the first terminal 320.

[0123] Although not shown in the diagram, a battery (for example, battery 400 in Figure 3) may include one or more battery terminals (for example, battery terminal 420 in Figure 3) and one or more battery sealing members (for example, battery sealing member 430 in Figure 3).

[0124] One or more battery sealing members may be located on one side of the battery where the battery terminals are situated, and may be positioned to surround the outer circumferential surface of each battery terminal. When viewed in the z-axis direction, the battery sealing members form a closed-loop annular shape with a cross-section such as a circle or rectangle.

[0125] Battery sealing members may include elastic materials. For example, battery sealing members may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. Battery sealing members containing elastic materials can seal the outer surface of battery terminals by applying pressure.

[0126] The aerosol generator includes a battery sealing member surrounding the battery terminals of the main body 300, thereby preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery terminals. This prevents the aerosol generator from being exposed to external foreign matter, damaging, or malfunctioning the battery terminals and the battery electrically connected to them.

[0127] When the battery is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space, each of the battery terminals provided on the battery can contact each of the first terminals 320 provided on the main body 300. The arrangement and number of the battery terminals may correspond to the arrangement and number of the first terminals 320. When the battery is coupled to or housed in the battery housing space, each of the first sealing members 330 may be arranged to contact each other with each of the battery sealing members.

[0128] The battery terminals of the battery and the first terminals 320 of the main body 300 are sealed by the battery sealing member provided on the battery and the first sealing member 330 provided on the main body 300, so that the battery terminals and the first terminals 320 can be protected from external foreign matter such as moisture or dust. As a result, the aerosol generator can prevent the battery terminals, the first terminals 320 and the electrically connected aerosol generator from being exposed to external foreign matter and being damaged or malfunctioning.

[0129] Figure 5B is a diagram illustrating the closed state of the first sealing member in Figure 3 according to another embodiment, and Figure 5C is a diagram illustrating the open state of the first sealing member in Figure 5B.

[0130] Referring to Figures 5B and 5C, the main body 300 may include one or more first terminals 320 and one or more first sealing members 330. The aerosol generating apparatus in Figures 5B and 5C is an aerosol generating apparatus in which a cover 331 is further added to the first sealing member 330 of Figure 5A, and a redundant explanation will be omitted below.

[0131] The cover 331 extends to the upper end portion of the first sealing member 330 (for example, the portion facing the +x axis) and can close or open the first terminal 320. For example, one end of the cover 331 may be connected to the upper end portion of the first sealing member 330, and the cover 331 may extend to the first sealing member 330, with the other end of the cover 331 in contact with the lower end portion of the first sealing member 330 (for example, the portion facing the -x axis).

[0132] The cover 331 is movably positioned to cover the first terminal 320, preventing it from being exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator, or to expose the first terminal 320 to the outside of the aerosol generator. For example, the cover 331 may be positioned to close the first terminal 320 in a first position P1, and to open the first terminal 320 in a second position P2, exposing the first terminal 320.

[0133] The cover 331 can protect the first terminal 320 from external impacts or foreign objects by being positioned in a first position P1 and preventing the first terminal 320 from being exposed to the outside. The cover 331 can move from the first position P1 to a second position P2, exposing the first terminal 320 to the outside. When the battery is housed or coupled in the battery housing space, the exposed first terminal 320 can come into contact with the battery terminals of the battery, allowing the aerosol generator to be powered from the battery terminals through the first terminal 320.

[0134] The cover 331 selectively exposes the first terminal 320, thereby preventing external foreign matter from entering the first terminal 320, preventing damage to the first terminal 320 and / or malfunction, and smoothly electrically connecting the first terminal 320 to the battery terminal, thereby improving the performance of the aerosol generator.

[0135] Although not shown in the diagram, a battery sealing member (e.g., battery sealing member 430 in Figure 3) provided on the battery (e.g., battery 400 in Figure 3) may further include a battery cover that extends to the upper end portion of the battery sealing member (e.g., the portion facing the +x axis).

[0136] The battery cover can close or open the battery sealing member. For example, one end of the battery cover may be connected to the upper end portion of the battery sealing member, and the battery cover may extend to the battery sealing member, with the other end of the battery cover in contact with the lower end portion of the battery sealing member (e.g., the portion facing the -x axis).

[0137] The battery cover is movably positioned to either cover the battery terminals to prevent them from being exposed to the outside of the battery, or to expose the battery terminals to the outside of the battery. For example, the battery cover can close the battery terminals in a first position, move from the first position to a second position, and open the battery terminals in the second position.

[0138] The battery cover can be positioned in a first position to protect the battery terminals from external impacts or foreign objects by preventing them from being exposed to the outside. The battery cover can be positioned in a second position to expose the battery terminals to the outside. When the battery is housed or coupled in the battery housing space, the exposed battery terminals come into contact with the first terminal 320 of the main body 300, allowing the battery to supply power to the aerosol generator through the first terminal 320.

[0139] The battery cover selectively exposes the battery terminals, preventing external foreign matter from entering the battery terminals, thereby preventing damage to the battery terminals and / or malfunctions. It also smoothly connects the first terminal 320 and the battery terminals electrically, improving the performance of the aerosol generator.

[0140] Figure 6A is a drawing illustrating the first sealing member of Figure 4 according to one embodiment.

[0141] Referring to Figure 6A, the main body 300 may include one or more first terminals 320 and one or more first sealing members 330. The aerosol generator shown in Figure 6A is an aerosol generator that differs from the aerosol generator shown in Figure 6A only in the shape and arrangement of the main body 300, battery 400 and battery cover 500, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0142] The main body 300 includes a battery housing space recessed inward (for example, the battery housing space 310 in Figure 4), and one or more first terminals 320 may be located on one side of the battery housing space (for example, the side facing the +z axis).

[0143] One or more first sealing members 330 may be located on one side of the battery housing space where the first terminals 320 are situated, and may be arranged to surround the outer circumferential surface of the first terminals 320. When the battery housing space is viewed in the +z-axis direction, the first sealing members 330 are closed-loop annular shapes with a cross-section such as a circle or rectangle.

[0144] The first sealing member 330 may include an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member 330 may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. The first sealing member 330, which includes an elastic material, can be used to pressurize and seal the outer surface of the first terminal 320.

[0145] The aerosol generator includes a first sealing member 330 surrounding the first terminal 320 of the main body 300, thereby preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the first terminal 320. This prevents the aerosol generator from being damaged or malfunctioning due to exposure to external foreign matter, specifically the first terminal 320 and the aerosol generator electrically connected to the first terminal 320.

[0146] Figure 6B is a diagram illustrating the closed state of the first sealing member of Figure 4 according to another embodiment, and Figure 6C is a diagram illustrating the open state of the first sealing member of Figure 6B.

[0147] Referring to Figures 6B and 6C, the main body 300 may include one or more first terminals 320 and one or more first sealing members 330. The aerosol generating apparatus in Figures 5B and 5C is an aerosol generating apparatus in which a cover 331 is further added to the first sealing member 330 of Figure 5A, and a redundant explanation will be omitted below.

[0148] The cover 331 extends to the upper end portion of the first sealing member 330 (for example, the portion facing the +x axis) and can close or open the first terminal 320. For example, one end of the cover 331 may be connected to the upper end portion of the first sealing member 330, and the cover 331 may extend to the first sealing member 330, with the other end of the cover 331 in contact with the lower end portion of the first sealing member 330 (for example, the portion facing the -x axis).

[0149] The cover 331 is movable and can either cover the first terminal 320 to prevent it from being exposed to the outside of the aerosol generator, or expose the first terminal 320 to the outside of the aerosol generator. For example, the cover 331 may be positioned to close the first terminal 320 in a first position P1 and to open the first terminal 320 in a second position P2, exposing the first terminal 320.

[0150] The cover 331 can protect the first terminal 320 from external impacts or foreign objects by being positioned in a first position P1 and preventing the first terminal 320 from being exposed to the outside. The cover 331 can move from the first position P1 to a second position P2, exposing the first terminal 320 to the outside. When the battery is housed or coupled in the battery housing space, the exposed first terminal 320 can come into contact with the battery terminals of the battery, allowing the aerosol generator to be powered from the battery terminals through the first terminal 320.

[0151] The cover 331 selectively exposes the first terminal 320, thereby preventing external foreign matter from entering the first terminal 320, preventing damage to the first terminal 320 and / or malfunction, and improving the performance of the aerosol generator by smoothly electrically connecting the first terminal 320 to the battery terminal.

[0152] The following describes the specific shapes and arrangement structure of the main unit, battery cover, and elastic components.

[0153] Figure 7A shows the battery and battery cover of Figure 3 before they are connected to the battery housing space, and Figure 7B shows the battery and battery cover of Figure 3 after they are connected to the battery housing space. Figures 7A and 7B are cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment shown in Figure 3, viewed in the direction of the +z axis along the xy plane.

[0154] The battery cover 500 may include an outer battery cover 510, an inner battery cover 520, and a projection 540. The battery cover 500 can be detachably attached to the main body 300 and protect the battery 400. When the battery cover 500 is detached from or separated from the main body 300, it can open the battery housing space 310, and when the battery cover 500 is attached to or attached to the main body 300, it can close the battery housing space 310.

[0155] The outer battery cover 510 is positioned in one area of ​​the main body 300 and can form the outer surface of the battery cover 500 (for example, the surface in the +x axis direction). After the battery 400 is housed in the battery housing space 310, the outer battery cover 510 can protect the battery 400 from external impacts or foreign objects by closing the battery housing space 310.

[0156] The inner battery cover 520 is formed in the center of the inner surface of the battery cover 500 (e.g., the -x axis plane) and may protrude toward the interior of the battery housing space 310 (e.g., the -x axis plane). After the battery 400 is housed in the battery housing space 310, and the battery cover 500 and the main body 300 are joined, the inner battery cover 520 can pressurize the battery 400 toward the main body 300 (e.g., the -x axis). By pressurizing the battery 400 with the inner battery cover 520, the battery 400 is secured in the battery housing space 310 and thus protected from external impacts.

[0157] The projection 540 is formed along the inner edge of the battery cover 500 and may project toward the interior of the battery housing space 310. The projection 540 may be positioned along the edge of the battery cover 500. For example, the projection 540 is rectangular and annular when viewed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500 in the +x axis direction. The projection 540 is inserted into and fitted into a groove 340 formed in the body 300, so that the battery cover 500 can be coupled to or fixed to the body 300. The projection 540 and the groove 340 may be positioned to correspond to the battery cover 500 and the body 300, respectively, so that they interlock with each other.

[0158] The main body 300 may further include an elastic member 350 positioned between the projection 540 and the groove 340 when the projection 540 and the groove 340 are coupled, for preventing external foreign matter from entering the battery housing space 310. The elastic member 350 is positioned along the edge of the battery cover 500 and has a rectangular annular shape when viewed in the -x axis direction in the battery housing space. However, it is not limited thereto, and the elastic member 350 may be positioned by being inserted into at least a portion of the groove 340 formed in the main body 300. The projection 540 provided on the battery cover 500 is inserted into the groove 340 provided on the main body 300, and the projection 540 can pressurize the elastic member 350 positioned inside the groove 340.

[0159] The elastic member 350 may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. The elastic member 350 is pressurized by the projection 540, and the gap between the projection 540 and the groove 340 can be sealed.

[0160] The aerosol generator can prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery housing space 310 by positioning an elastic member 350 between the groove 340 of the main body 300 and the projection 540 of the battery cover 500. This prevents the aerosol generator from being exposed to external foreign matter and being damaged or malfunctioning, as the first terminal 320 located in the battery housing space 310 and the aerosol generator electrically connected to the first terminal 320 are not exposed to external foreign matter.

[0161] Although the drawings only show an embodiment in which a projection 540 is formed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500 along the edge of the battery cover 500, and the elastic member 350 is pressurized while the projection 540 is inserted into or fitted into a groove 340 formed in the main body 300, the invention is not limited thereto. In another example, a projection may be formed on the outer surface of the main body 300 along the edge of the battery housing space 310, and the elastic member 350 may be pressurized while the projection is inserted into or fitted into a groove formed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500.

[0162] Figure 8A shows the battery and battery cover of Figure 4 before they are connected to the battery housing space, and Figure 8B shows the battery and battery cover of Figure 4 after they are connected to the battery housing space. Figures 8A and 8B are cross-sectional views of the aerosol generator according to another embodiment shown in Figure 4, viewed in the direction of the +y axis. The aerosol generator shown in Figures 8A and 8B is an aerosol generator that differs from the aerosol generator shown in Figures 7A and 7B only in the shape and arrangement structure of the main body 300, battery 400, and battery cover 500, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0163] The battery cover 500 may include an outer battery cover 510, an inner battery cover 520, and a projection 540. The battery cover 500 can be detachably attached to the main body 300 and protect the battery 400. When the battery cover 500 is detached from or separated from the main body 300, it can open the battery housing space 310, and when the battery cover 500 is attached to or attached to the main body 300, it can close the battery housing space 310.

[0164] The outer battery cover 510 is positioned in one area of ​​the main body 300 and can form the outer surface of the battery cover 500 (for example, the surface in the -z axis direction). After the battery 400 is housed in the battery housing space 310, the outer battery cover 510 can protect the battery 400 from external impacts or foreign objects by closing the battery housing space 310.

[0165] The inner battery cover 520 is formed in the center of the inner surface of the battery cover 500 (for example, the plane in the +z axis direction) and may protrude toward the interior of the battery housing space 310 (for example, the plane in the +z axis direction). After the battery 400 is housed in the battery housing space 310, and the battery cover 500 and the main body 300 are joined, the inner battery cover 520 can press the battery 400 toward the main body 300 (for example, in the +z axis direction). By pressurizing the battery 400 with the inner battery cover 520, the battery 400 is fixed in the battery housing space 310 and thus the battery 400 can be protected from external impacts.

[0166] The projection 540 is formed along the inner edge of the battery cover 500 and may project toward the interior of the battery housing space 310. The projection 540 may be positioned along the edge of the battery cover 500. For example, the projection 540 is circular and annular when viewed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500 in the -z-axis direction (e.g., the -z-axis direction surface). The projection 540 is inserted into and fitted into a groove 340 formed in the body 300, so that the battery cover 500 can be coupled to or fixed to the body 300. The projection 540 and the groove 340 may be positioned correspondingly to each other on the battery cover 500 and the body 300, respectively, so that they interlock with each other.

[0167] The main body 300 may further include an elastic member 350 positioned between the projection 540 and the groove 340 when the projection 540 and the groove 340 are coupled, for preventing external foreign matter from entering the battery housing space 310. The elastic member 350 is positioned along the edge of the battery cover 500 and is circular and annular when viewed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500 in the -z axis direction. However, it is not limited thereto, and the elastic member 350 may be inserted into at least a portion of the groove 340 formed in the main body 300. The projection 540 provided on the battery cover 500 is inserted into the groove 340 provided on the main body 300, and the projection 540 can pressurize the elastic member 350 positioned inside the groove 340. The elastic member 350 is pressurized by the projection 540 and can seal the gap between the projection 540 and the groove 340.

[0168] The aerosol generator can prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the battery housing space 310 by positioning an elastic member 350 between the groove 340 of the main body 300 and the projection 540 of the battery cover 500. This prevents the aerosol generator from being exposed to external foreign matter and being damaged or malfunctioning, as the first terminal 320 located in the battery housing space 310 and the aerosol generator electrically connected to the first terminal 320 are not exposed to external foreign matter.

[0169] Although the drawings show only an embodiment in which a projection 540 is formed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500 along the edge of the battery cover 500, and the elastic member 350 is pressurized while the projection 540 is inserted into or fitted into a groove 340 formed in the main body 300, the invention is not limited thereto. In another example, a projection may be formed on the outer surface of the main body 300 along the edge of the battery housing space 310, and the elastic member 350 may be pressurized while the projection is inserted into or fitted into a groove formed on the inner surface of the battery cover 500.

[0170] Figure 9 is a drawing illustrating a second sealing member and a heater sealing member according to one embodiment. Referring to Figure 9, the aerosol generator may include a second terminal 360, a heater 600, and a heater terminal 560. The components included in the aerosol generator 100 of Figure 9 are not limited to those shown in Figure 9, and the components of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 9 may be replaced by other components, or additional components may be added to the aerosol generator. For example, at least one of the components of the aerosol generator of Figure 9 is identical or similar to the components of the aerosol generator 100 of Figure 3 and / or Figure 4. Repeated explanations are omitted below.

[0171] The internal space of the main body 300 may house a heater 600 for heating the aerosol-generating material inserted into or housed in the aerosol generator, and a second terminal 360 electrically connected to the heater 600. The second terminal 360 is a terminal for the aerosol generator to supply power from a battery to the heater 600. At least one surface of the second terminal 360 may be exposed to the outside of the main body 300. The second terminal 360 exposed to the outside of the main body 300 can come into contact with the heater terminal 560 of the heater 600 when the heater 600 is coupled to or housed in the main body 300. The second terminal 360 of the main body 300 is electrically connected to the heater terminal 560 of the heater 600, allowing power to be supplied to the heater 600 from the battery. The second terminal 360 may include at least one material from among copper, aluminum, gold, and silver. For example, the surface of the second terminal 360 may be plated with gold or silver. However, this is not limited to the material of the second terminal 360, and any material that is used to electrically connect the second terminal 360 and the heater terminal 560 falls under this category.

[0172] The main body 300 may also include a second sealing member 370, which is positioned to surround the second terminal 360 and prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the second terminal 360. The second sealing member 370 may include an elastic material. For example, the second sealing member 370 may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. The second sealing member 370, which includes an elastic material, can pressurize and seal the outer surface of the second terminal 360.

[0173] The aerosol generator includes a second sealing member 370 surrounding the second terminal 360 of the main body 300, thereby preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the second terminal 360. This prevents the aerosol generator from being damaged or malfunctioning due to exposure to external foreign matter, specifically the second terminal 360 and the aerosol generator electrically connected to the second terminal 360.

[0174] The heater 600 is powered by a battery and can heat the aerosol-generating material inserted into or housed in the aerosol generator. The heater 600 may have one or more heater terminals 560. The heater terminals 560 are terminals for receiving power from the battery. The arrangement and number of heater terminals 560 may correspond to the arrangement and number of second terminals 360. When the heater 600 is coupled to or housed in the main body 300, each of the heater terminals 560 on the heater 600 can come into contact with each of the second terminals 360 on the main body 300.

[0175] The heater terminal 560 may include at least one material from copper, aluminum, gold, and silver. For example, the surface of the heater terminal 560 may be plated with gold or silver. However, it is not limited to this, and the material of the heater terminal 560 is any material that is used to electrically connect the heater terminal 560 and the second terminal 360.

[0176] The heater 600 may also be provided with a heater sealing member 570, which is positioned to surround the heater terminal 560 and prevent external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the heater terminal 560. The heater sealing member 570 may include an elastic material. For example, the heater sealing member 570 may include materials such as insulating rubber or polyurethane resin. The heater sealing member 570, which includes an elastic material, can pressurize and seal the outer surface of the heater terminal 560.

[0177] The aerosol generator includes a heater sealing member 570 surrounding the heater terminal 560 of the heater 600, thereby preventing external foreign matter such as moisture or dust from entering the heater terminal 560. This prevents the heater terminal 560 and the heater 600, which is electrically connected to the heater terminal 560, from being exposed to external foreign matter and resulting in damage or malfunction.

[0178] Figure 10 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment.

[0179] The aerosol generator 1 includes a battery 12, a control unit 13, a sensor unit 14, an output unit 40, an input unit 70, a communication unit 50, a memory 60, and at least one heater 15. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is shown in Figure 10. That is, a person with ordinary skill in the art according to this embodiment will understand that some of the components shown in Figure 10 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1.

[0180] The sensor unit 14 can sense the state of the aerosol generator 1 or the state of the area around the aerosol generator 1 and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 13. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15, restricting smoking, determining whether or not a stick and / or cartridge 19 is inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0181] The sensor unit 14 includes at least one of the following: a temperature sensor 141, a puff sensor 142, an insertion sensor 143, a reuse sensor 144, a cartridge sensor 145, a cap sensor 146, and a motion sensor 147.

[0182] The temperature sensor 141 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15, or the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 themselves may act as the temperature sensor.

[0183] The temperature sensor 141 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. For example, the temperature sensor 141 includes a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. This is embodied by an element such as a thermistor, which utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. In this case, the temperature sensor 141 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. For example, the temperature sensor 141 is composed of a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. In this case, the temperature sensor 141 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0184] The temperature sensor 141 may be positioned around the battery 12 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 141 may be positioned adjacent to the battery 12. For example, the temperature sensor 141 may be attached to one side of the battery 12. For example, the temperature sensor 141 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0185] The temperature sensor 141 is located inside the main unit 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the main unit 10.

[0186] The puff sensor 142 can detect user puffs based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 142 can output a signal corresponding to a puff. For example, the puff sensor 142 is also a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 142 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 corresponds to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 142 can be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0187] The insertion sensor 143 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick. The insertion sensor 143 can detect the signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick. The insertion sensor 143 can be installed around the insertion space. The insertion sensor 143 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick by the change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensor 143 is also an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0188] An inductive sensor includes at least one coil. The coil of the inductive sensor is positioned adjacent to the insertion space. For example, if the magnetic field changes around a coil through which current flows, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil may change according to Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction. Here, the characteristics of the current flowing through the coil include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0189] An inductive sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an inductive sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the inductance value of a coil.

[0190] A capacitance sensor includes a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor is positioned adjacent to the insertion space. The capacitance sensor can output a signal corresponding to the surrounding electromagnetic properties, such as the capacitance around the conductor. For example, if a stick including a metal ferrule is inserted into the insertion space, the ferrule of the stick can alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0191] The reuse detection sensor 144 can detect whether the stick has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 144 is also a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the stick. The color sensor can detect the hue of a portion of the trumpet surrounding the outside of the stick. The color sensor can detect values ​​related to the optical properties corresponding to the hue of an object, based on the light reflected from the object. For example, the optical properties are also the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as a single configuration with the proximity sensor, or as a separate configuration distinct from the proximity sensor.

[0192] At least a portion of the flaps that make up the stick may change hue due to aerosols. The reuse sensing sensor 144 may be positioned in a location corresponding to where at least a portion of the flaps whose hue changes due to aerosols are located when the stick is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick is used by a user, at least a portion of the flaps has a first hue. In this case, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the stick, at least a portion of the flaps may be wetted by the aerosol, causing at least a portion of the flaps to change to a second hue. On the other hand, at least a portion of the flaps may remain at the second hue after being changed from the first hue to the second hue.

[0193] The cartridge sensing sensor 145 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 145 can be implemented as an inductance substrate sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0194] The cap sensing sensor 146 can detect the attachment and / or removal of the cap. When the cap is separated from the main body 10, a portion of the cartridge 19 and the main body 10 that was covered by the cap may be exposed to the outside. The cap sensing sensor 146 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0195] The motion sensing sensor 147 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensing sensor 147 is embodied by at least one of an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.

[0196] In addition to the aforementioned sensors 141 to 147, the sensor unit 14 may further include at least one of the following: a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a position sensor (GPS), and a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an average engineer from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0197] The output unit 40 can output and provide to the user information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 40 includes, but is not limited to, a display unit 41, a haptic unit 42, and an acoustic output unit 43. When the display unit 41 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display unit 41 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0198] The display unit 41 can visually provide the user with information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the information about the aerosol generator 1 can include various types of information such as the charge / discharge status of the battery 12 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the stick heater 15, the insertion / removal status of the stick and / or cartridge 19, the attachment / removal status of the cap, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal object), and the display unit 41 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display unit 41 can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display unit 41 can be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0199] The haptic unit 42 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the haptic unit 42 generates vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating when initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 for a set time. The haptic unit 42 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0200] The acoustic output unit 43 can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 43 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0201] The battery 12 can supply power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The battery 12 can supply power to heat the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. The battery 12 can also supply power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor unit 14, the output unit 40, the input unit 70, the communication unit 50, and the memory 60. The battery 12 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 12 is a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited to that.

[0202] Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the battery 12 and may include a switching element.

[0203] The power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the battery 12 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the battery 12 if the voltage level of the battery 12 is equal to or greater than a first voltage corresponding to overcharging. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the battery 12 if the voltage level of the battery 12 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0204] The stick heater 15 is powered by the battery 12 and can heat the medium or aerosol-generating material inside the stick. Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 12 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. Also, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols by induction heating, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power from the battery 12 to AC power.

[0205] The control unit 13, sensor unit 14, output unit 40, input unit 70, communication unit 50, and memory 60 can function by being powered by the battery 12. Although not shown in Figure 10, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, may be further included to convert the power from the battery 12 and supply it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 10, a noise filter may be provided between the battery 12 and the stick heater 15. The noise filter is also a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter corresponds to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the battery 12 to the stick heater 15. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor unit 14, such as the insertion sensing sensor 143.

[0206] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 may consist of any suitable electrical resistant material. Suitable electrical resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The stick heater 15 may also be embodied by, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which a conductive track is arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0207] In other embodiments, the stick heater 15 is also an induction heating type heater. For example, the stick heater 15 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0208] The input unit 70 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 70 is also a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that detects touch. For example, the touch sensor includes, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, an ultrasonic touch sensor (surface acoustic wave touch sensor), or an infrared touch sensor.

[0209] The display unit 41 and the touch panel can be realized as a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be inserted into the display unit 41 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel can be added on top of the display unit 41 (add-on type).

[0210] On the other hand, the input section 70 includes, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0211] Memory 60 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 13 and data being processed. Memory 60 includes at least one type of recording medium from among flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Memory 60 can store data such as 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 related to the user's smoking pattern.

[0212] The communication unit 50 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 50 includes at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0213] The short-range wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, Bluetooth® communication units, BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication units, Near Field Communication units, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication units, Zigbee® communication units, infrared (IrDA: infrared Data Association) communication units, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication units, UWB (ultra wideband) communication units, Ant+ communication units, etc.

[0214] The wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit.

[0215] Although not shown in Figure 10, the aerosol generator 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 12.

[0216] The control unit 13 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 13 includes at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. It will be understood by those ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be embodied by other forms of hardware.

[0217] The control unit 13 can control the temperature of the stick heater 15 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 12 to the stick heater 15. The control unit 13 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 sensed by the temperature sensor 141. The control unit 13 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. For example, the control unit 13 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 60.

[0218] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the battery 12 between the battery 12 and the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 15, the stick heater 15, or the induction coil 181. The power supply circuit includes at least one switching element. The switching element is embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), etc. The control unit 13 can control the power supply circuit.

[0219] The control unit 13 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit is also an inverter that converts the DC power output from the battery 12 into AC power. For example, the inverter is composed of a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0220] The control unit 13 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the battery 12 to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. The control unit 13 can turn off the switching element so that the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 is cut off. The control unit 13 can adjust the current supplied from the battery 12 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0221] The control unit 13 can control the voltage output from the battery 12 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the battery 12. For example, the power conversion circuit includes a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the battery 12. For example, the power conversion circuit is implemented through a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, etc.

[0222] The control unit 13 can control the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power conversion circuit and adjust the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit corresponds to the level of the voltage output from the battery 12. The duty cycle for 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 battery 12. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element, the lower the level of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit may be. The stick heater 15 can be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0223] The control unit 13 can control the supply of power to the stick heater 15 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0224] For example, the control unit 13 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the stick heater 15. The control unit 13 can adjust the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses to control the power supplied to the stick heater 15.

[0225] For example, the control unit 13 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 13 can control the power supplied to the stick heater 15 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the temperature of the stick heater 15 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0226] The control unit 13 can prevent the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 from overheating. For example, the control unit 13 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit so that the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 is interrupted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 exceeding a predetermined limit temperature. For example, the control unit 13 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 by a certain percentage based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 exceeding a predetermined limit temperature. For example, the control unit 13 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 exceeding a limit temperature and cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 15.

[0227] The control unit 13 can control the charging and discharging of the battery 12. The control unit 13 can check the temperature of the battery 12 based on the output signal of the temperature sensor 141.

[0228] When a power line is connected to the main body electrode of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 13 can check whether the temperature of the battery 12 is equal to or above a first limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is below the first limiting temperature, the control unit 13 can control the charging of the battery 12 based on a predetermined charging current. If the temperature of the battery 12 is equal to or above the first limiting temperature, the control unit 13 can shut off the charging of the battery 12.

[0229] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 13 can check whether the temperature of the battery 12 is above the second limit temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is below the second limit temperature, the control unit 13 can control the system to use the power stored in the battery 12. If the temperature of the battery 12 is above the second limit temperature, the control unit 13 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the battery 12.

[0230] The control unit 13 can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 12 relative to the power stored in the battery. For example, the control unit 13 can calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 12 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the battery 12.

[0231] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not a stick is inserted into the insertion space via the insertion sensing sensor 143. Based on the output signal of the insertion sensing sensor 143, the control unit 13 can determine that a stick has been inserted. If it determines that a stick has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 13 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15. For example, the control unit 13 can supply power to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 60.

[0232] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not the stick has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether or not the stick has been removed from the insertion space through the insertion sensing sensor 143. For example, the control unit 13 can determine that the stick has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the stick heater 15 is above a limit temperature, or if the temperature change gradient of the stick heater 15 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 13 determines that the stick has been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0233] The control unit 13 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the stick heater 15 based on the state of the stick sensed by the sensor unit 14. The control unit 13 can determine the level range that includes the level of the capacitance sensor signal based on a lookup table. The control unit 13 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick based on the determined level range.

[0234] If the stick is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 13 can control the power supply time to the stick heater 15, increasing the preheating time of the stick compared to normal conditions.

[0235] The control unit 13 can determine whether the stick inserted into the insertion space is to be reused through the reuse sensing sensor 144. For example, the control unit 13 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a first reference range that includes a first hue, and if the sensing value falls within the first reference range, it can determine that the stick is not being used. For example, the control unit 13 can compare the sensing value of the reuse sensing sensor signal with a second reference range that includes a second hue, and if the sensing value falls within the second reference range, it can determine that the stick has been used. If it is determined that the stick has been used, the control unit 13 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0236] The control unit 13 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge 19 through the cartridge sensing sensor 145. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0237] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. For example, the control unit 13 can preheat the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15 by applying power, and determine whether or not the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 13 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted. If the control unit 13 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0238] The control unit 13 can determine whether or not the cartridge 19 can be used. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 60, the control unit 13 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the current number of puffs is greater than or equal to the maximum number of puffs set for the cartridge 19. For example, the control unit 13 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the total time the cartridge heater 15 has been heated is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 15 is greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum amount of power.

[0239] The control unit 13 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation through the puff sensor 142. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether or not a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 13 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 142. If the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, or if no puff is detected for a predetermined time or longer, the control unit 13 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0240] The control unit 13 can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed via the cap sensing sensor 146. For example, the control unit 13 can determine whether the cap is attached and / or removed based on the sensing value of the signal from the cap sensing sensor.

[0241] The control unit 13 can control the output unit 40 based on the results sensed by the sensor unit 14. For example, if the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 142 reaches a predetermined number, the control unit 13 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will soon shut off through at least one of the display unit 41, the haptic unit 42, and the acoustic output unit 43. For example, the control unit 13 can notify the user through the output unit 40 based on the determination that there is no stick in the insertion space. For example, the control unit 13 can notify the user through the output unit 40 based on the determination that the cartridge 19 and / or cap is not installed. For example, the control unit 13 can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or stick heater 15 to the user through the output unit 40.

[0242] The control unit 13 can save and update a history of events in the memory 60 based on the occurrence of a predetermined event. Events include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detecting the insertion of a stick, starting the heating of the stick, detecting puffing, ending the puffing, detecting overheating of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15, detecting the application of overvoltage to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15, ending the heating of the stick, turning the power of the aerosol generator 1 on / off, starting charging of the battery 12, detecting overcharging of the battery 12, and ending the charging of the battery 12. The history of events includes the date and time the event occurred, log data corresponding to the event, etc. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of stick insertion, the log data corresponding to the event includes data such as the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 143. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating in the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15, the log data corresponding to the event will include data on the temperature of the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15, and the current flowing through the cartridge heater 15 and / or the stick heater 15.

[0243] The control unit 13 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as a user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 13 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the authentication data includes data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication through the external device. The external device can determine whether the user data is valid based on the user's date of birth, a unique number identifying the user, etc., and can receive data regarding the right to use the aerosol generator 1 from an external server. Based on the data regarding the right to use, the external device can transmit data indicating the completion of user authentication to the aerosol generator 1. Once user authentication is complete, the control unit 13 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. For example, once user authentication is complete, the control unit 13 can remove the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the stick heater 15.

[0244] The control unit 13 can transmit data related to 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 battery 12 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, etc., through the external device's display.

[0245] An external device can transmit a location search request to the aerosol generator 1 based on an input that initiates a location search for the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 13 receives a location search request from the external device, it 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 42 may generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display unit 41 may output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0246] The control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update when it receives firmware data from an external device. The external device can check the current firmware version of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether a new firmware version exists. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware version data and transmit the new firmware version data to the aerosol generator 1. Upon receiving the new firmware version data, the control unit 13 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0247] The control unit 13 can transmit data relating to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 14 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 50, and can receive and store a learning model generated by learning the sensing values ​​from the server through machine learning such as deep learning. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 13 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 13 can store sensing value data from at least one sensor unit 14 and data for learning an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 60. For example, the memory 60 can store a database relating to each component of the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the structure of the artificial neural network (ANN), for learning the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 13 learns data related to the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor unit 14, the user's inhalation pattern, temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 60, and can generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern, generating a temperature profile, etc.

[0248] The embodiments of the present invention described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The respective configurations or functions of the embodiments of the present invention described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other.

[0249] 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. In other words, even if the combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible unless it is stated that such combination is impossible.

[0250] The detailed description set forth herein should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, but should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention shall be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. The main unit, including the battery housing space, A battery that is detachably coupled to the aforementioned battery housing space, A first terminal is arranged in the battery housing space and is electrically connected to the battery when the battery is coupled to the battery housing space, The first terminal is surrounded by a first sealing member, which prevents foreign matter from entering the first terminal. The battery includes a battery terminal that contacts the first terminal and a battery sealing member that surrounds the battery terminal. The first sealing member includes a movable first cover, The aerosol generating device includes a movable second cover as the sealing member for the battery.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first cover is arranged to close the first sealing member in a first position and to open the first sealing member in a second position, exposing the first terminal.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second cover is positioned to close the battery sealing member in the first position and to open the battery sealing member in the second position, exposing the first terminal.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a battery cover disposed in one area of ​​the main body for opening and closing the battery housing space.

5. The aforementioned battery cover is The outer battery cover forming the outer surface of the aforementioned battery cover, An inner battery cover formed in the center of the inner surface of the battery cover, which presses the battery toward the main body when the battery is connected to the battery housing space, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a projection disposed along the edge of the inner surface of the battery cover.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the main body further includes a groove into which the projection is inserted when the battery cover is coupled to the main body.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the main body further includes an elastic member positioned between the projection and the groove when the projection is coupled to the groove, for preventing the inflow of external foreign matter into the battery housing space.

8. It further includes a heater for heating the aerosol-generating material, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main body further includes a second terminal electrically connected to the heater and a second sealing member arranged to surround the second terminal and prevent external foreign matter from entering the second terminal.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second sealing member includes a movable third cover.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the third cover is arranged to close the second sealing member in a first position and to open the second sealing member in a second position, exposing the second terminal.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the heater includes a heater terminal that contacts the second terminal and a heater sealing member that surrounds the heater terminal.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the heater sealing member includes a movable cover.

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