Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus is disclosed. The aerosol generating apparatus of this disclosure includes a body having an insertion space with one side open, a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a first container for storing liquid inside, and a second container disposed adjacent to the first container and having a core for receiving liquid from the first container and a heater for heating the core inside, a first channel communicating with the insertion space and the inside of the second container, and a second channel through which outside air flows in and communicates with the first channel on one side thereof, wherein a first membrane having selective permeability may be disposed in the first channel.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

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

[0003] The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device is a high-temperature gas and can be cooled while flowing inside the device before being inhaled by the user. However, depending on the usage environment of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol may contain heated moisture inside, and such moisture may be inhaled by the user without being sufficiently cooled. In this case, the user may feel a strange feeling. Also, it cannot be ruled out that the user may be burned by the heated moisture.

[0004] However, a conventional aerosol generating device has a problem that it does not have a means capable of preventing the outflow of liquid inside the aerosol.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-described problems and other problems.

[0006] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device in which a membrane having selective permeability is arranged on the flow path of a cartridge.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating device in which a membrane having selective permeability is placed on the flow path of the body.

[0008] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generator equipped with additional flow channels to compensate for changes in suction resistance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: a body having an insertion space with one side open; a cartridge coupled to the body, the cartridge including a first container for storing liquid internally, and a second container disposed adjacent to the first container and having a core for receiving liquid from the first container and a heater for heating the core; a first channel communicating with the insertion space and the inside of the second container; and a second channel through which outside air flows in and communicates with the first channel on one side thereof, wherein a first membrane having selective permeability is disposed in the first channel. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by arranging a selectively permeable membrane in the flow path of the cartridge, it is possible to prevent the leakage of high-temperature liquid to the outside of the cartridge and reduce the sensation of heat that the user may feel.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the problem of liquid material leaking to the outside of the cartridge can be reduced by arranging a selectively permeable membrane on the flow path of the cartridge.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by placing a membrane on the flow path of the body, the problem of droplets generated by the cooling of aerosols flowing inside the body being inhaled by the user can be reduced.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the increase in suction resistance caused by the membrane can be compensated for by providing the cartridge with an additional flow path structure.

[0014] Any additional applicable scope of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the detailed description and specific embodiments, such as preferred embodiments of this disclosure, should be understood to be given only as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the combined body, cartridge, and upper case of the aerosol generator. [Figure 5] This is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the combined body, cartridge, and upper case of the aerosol generator. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the body and cartridge of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the combined body and cartridge of the aerosol generator. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol generating apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]A cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] A block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same or similar components are given the same reference numerals even if they are illustrated in different drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0017] The suffixes “module” and “unit” for components used in the following description are used only for the ease of explanation in the specification. “Module” and “unit” do not have different meanings or roles from each other.

[0018] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if the specific description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. Also, the accompanying drawings are for facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical idea disclosed in this specification is not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. can be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0020] When we say that one component is "linked" to another, it is understandable that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" to another, it is understandable that there are no other components in between.

[0021] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0022] Throughout this specification, the orientation of the aerosol generator and cartridge can be defined with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. In the Cartesian coordinate system, the x-axis can be defined as the left-right direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +x may mean the right direction, and the direction toward -x may mean the left direction. The y-axis can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. Here, with respect to the origin, the direction toward +y may mean the rear direction, and the direction toward -y may mean the front direction. The z-axis can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator and cartridge. With respect to the origin, the direction toward +z may mean the up direction, and the direction toward -z may mean the down direction.

[0023] Throughout this specification, “upstream” and “downstream” can be determined based on the direction of the airflow that flows so that the generated aerosol is drawn into the user’s mouth or lungs when the user inhales it. For example, in Figures 1 and 2, the generated aerosol flows from the portion of the stick S inserted into the aerosol generator to the portion not inserted, so the portion of the stick S inserted is located upstream of the portion not inserted. “Upstream” and “downstream” can be determined relative to the components.

[0024] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, a heater 18, and a cartridge 19. At least one of the power supply 11, the control unit 12, the sensor 13, and the heater 18 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator. The body 10 may provide an upwardly opening space into which a stick S, which is an aerosol product, can be inserted. This upwardly opening space can be called an insertion space. The insertion space may be formed by recessing inward to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space may correspond to the length of the region in the stick S that contains the aerosol generating substance and / or medium. The lower end of the stick S may be inserted inside the body 10, and the upper end of the stick S may protrude outside the body 10. The user can inhale air by putting the exposed upper end of the stick S in their mouth.

[0026] The heater 18 can heat the stick S. The heater 18 can extend upward around the space into which the stick S is inserted. For example, the heater 18 may be in the form of a tube with a hollow interior. The heater 18 can be positioned around the insertion space. The heater 18 can be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space or the stick S inserted into the insertion space. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0027] For example, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by an electric current flowing through the electrically conductive track. The heater 18 may be electrically connected to a power supply 11. The heater 18 can generate heat directly by receiving an electric current from the power supply 11.

[0028] For example, the aerosol generator 1 may include an induction coil surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil can cause the heater 18 to generate heat. The heater 18 is a susceptor, and the heater 18 can generate heat through a magnetic field generated by an AC current flowing through the induction coil. The magnetic field penetrates the heater 18 and can generate eddy currents within the heater 18. The current can generate heat in the heater 18.

[0029] On the other hand, a susceptor can be included inside the stick S, and the susceptor inside the stick S can be heated by the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil.

[0030] The cartridge 19 may contain an aerosol-generating substance having one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid composition. 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.

[0031] The cartridge 19 may be integrally formed with the body 10 or may be detachably attached to the body 10.

[0032] For example, referring to Figure 1, the cartridge 19 is integrally formed with the body 10 and can communicate with the insertion space via an airflow channel CN.

[0033] For example, referring to Figure 2, a space is formed on one side of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can be mounted on the body 10 by inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 19 into the space formed on one side of the body 10. The airflow channel CN ​​is defined by a portion of the cartridge 19 and / or a portion of the body 10, and the cartridge 19 can communicate with the insertion space via the airflow channel CN.

[0034] The body 10 can be formed in such a way that outside air can flow into the body 10 when the cartridge 19 is inserted. Here, the outside air that flows into the body 10 can pass through the cartridge 19 and flow into the user's mouth.

[0035] The cartridge 19 may include a storage section C1 containing an aerosol-generating substance and / or a heater 24 for heating the aerosol-generating substance in the storage section C1. The storage section C1 can be described as a container. At least a portion of a liquid transfer means 25 (see Figure 6) impregnated (containing) the aerosol-generating substance may be located inside the storage section C1. Here, the liquid transfer means 25 may include a wick such as cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramic. The electrically conductive track of the heater 24 may be formed in the form of a coil that winds around the liquid transfer means 25 or in a structure that contacts one side of the liquid transfer means 25. The heater 24 can be described as a cartridge heater 24.

[0036] The cartridge 19 can generate an aerosol. An aerosol can be generated by heating the liquid transfer means 25 with the cartridge heater 24. An aerosol can be generated by heating the stick S with the heater 18. As the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 and heater 18 passes through the stick S, tobacco substances are added to the aerosol, and the aerosol with added tobacco substances can be inhaled into the user's mouth through one end of the stick S.

[0037] The aerosol generator 1 is equipped only with a cartridge heater 24, and the body 10 does not need to be equipped with a heater 18. In this configuration, the aerosol generated by the cartridge heater 24 can absorb tobacco substances as it passes through the stick S and be inhaled into the user's mouth.

[0038] The aerosol generator 1 may include an upper case (not shown). The upper case may be detachably attached to the body 10 so as to cover at least a portion of the cartridge 19 which is coupled to the body 10. The stick S may be inserted into the body 10 through the upper case.

[0039] The power supply 11 can provide power to the components of the aerosol generator. The power supply 11 can be described as a battery. The power supply 11 can supply power to at least one of the control unit 12, sensor 13, cartridge heater 24, and heater 18. If the aerosol generator 1 includes an induction coil, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil.

[0040] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator. The control unit 12 can be mounted on a printed circuit board. The control unit 12 can control the operation of at least one of the following: the power supply 11, the sensor 13, the heater 18, and the cartridge 19. The control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, motor, etc., installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator and determine whether the aerosol generator is in an operational state.

[0041] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processing. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 so that the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 starts or stops. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 and the duration for which power is supplied so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0042] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, an insertion sensor, a color sensor, a cartridge sensor, and an upper case sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of the following: the temperature of the heater 18, the temperature of the power supply 11, and the internal and external temperatures of the body 10. For example, sensor 13 can sense the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether a cartridge has been installed. For example, sensor 13 can sense whether the upper case has been installed.

[0043] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 4 is a combined perspective view of the body, cartridge, and upper case of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3.

[0044] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the body B100 may comprise an upper body B120 and a lower body B110. The upper body B120 may be located above the lower body B110. The lower body B110 may extend vertically. The body B100 can house components for driving the apparatus internally. The upper body B120 may provide an insertion space B134 that opens upward. The insertion space B134 may be located inside the upper body B120. The insertion space B134 may extend vertically. The insertion space B134 may be formed in a pipe B130 located inside the upper body B120.

[0045] The upper case B200 may have a hollow shape with an open bottom. The upper body B120 can be inserted into the hollow of the upper case B200. The upper case B200 can be detachably coupled to the body B100. The upper case B200 can cover the upper body B120 so as to surround it. The lateral portion B211 of the upper case B200 can cover the side wall B121 of the upper body B120 so as to surround it. The upper part B212 of the upper case B200 can cover the upper part B180 of the upper body B120. When the upper case B200 is coupled to the body B100, the upper case B200 can cover the body B100 and the cartridge B300 together. The cartridge B300 may be located inside the upper case B200.

[0046] The insertion opening B214 may be formed by an opening in the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. The insertion opening B214 may correspond to an opening in the insertion space B134. The upper case B215 may be movably installed on the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. A slide hole B213 may extend to one side from the insertion opening B214 at the upper part B212 of the upper case B200. The upper case B215 can move along the slide hole B213. The upper case B215 can open and close the insertion opening B214 and the insertion space B134. The stick S may be inserted into the insertion space B134 through the insertion opening B214. For example, the stick S may be a cigarette.

[0047] The outer wall B121 and partition wall B125 can form the lateral portion of the upper body B120. The outer wall B121 and partition wall B125 can be connected. The outer wall B121 can be covered by the inner surface of the upper case B200. Partition wall B125 can separate the cartridge coupling space B124a and the insertion space B134.

[0048] The upper body B120 may include a seating portion B122. The seating portion B122 may extend to one side from the lower part of the partition wall B125. The seating portion B122 may be formed on the upper side of the lower body B110. The seating portion B122 may cover the lower part of the coupling space B124a. The bottom surface of the cartridge B300 may be seated and supported on the seating portion B122.

[0049] The upper body B120 may include an extension B140. The extension B140 may extend to one side from the top of the bulkhead B125. The extension B140 may extend in the direction in which the seating portion B122 is formed. The extension B140 may cover the top of the cartridge coupling space B124a. The extension B140 may cover the upper end surface of the cartridge B300. The extension B140 may cover the cartridge inlet B301 formed in the cartridge B300. A gap through which air can flow may be formed between the extension B140 and the cartridge inlet B301.

[0050] The cartridge coupling space B124a may be formed on one side of the upper body B120. The cartridge coupling space B124a may be defined by the seating portion B122, the partition wall B125, and the extension portion B140 of the upper body B120. The bottom of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the seating portion B122. One side of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the partition wall B125 of the upper body B120. The upper side of the cartridge coupling space B124a may be covered by the extension portion B140. The cartridge coupling space B124a may be open to the outside between the seating portion B122 and the extension portion B140.

[0051] Cartridge B300 can be inserted into coupling space B124a and coupled to body B100. Cartridge B300 can be detachably coupled to body B100. One side surface B311 of cartridge B300 can face partition wall B125. The upper end surface B312 of cartridge B300 can be covered by extension B140. The bottom surface B322 of cartridge B300 can seat on seat B122. Cartridge terminal B128 is connected to cartridge B300 and can supply power to heater B342 inside cartridge B300.

[0052] A coupling hook B125a may be formed on the upper body B120. A pusher B125b may be formed on the upper body B120. The coupling hook B125a and pusher B125b may be formed in pairs on both sides and positioned opposite each other. The cartridge B300 may include a hook coupling groove B315. The hook coupling groove B315 may be formed in a position corresponding to the coupling hook B125a. When the cartridge B300 is inserted into the coupling space B124a, the coupling hook B125a engages with the hook coupling groove B315, allowing the cartridge B300 to be coupled to the body B100. The pusher B125b and coupling hook B125a can move in conjunction with each other. When the pusher B125b is pressed, the coupling hook B125a moves in a direction that separates it from the hook coupling groove B315, and the cartridge B300 can be separated from the body B100.

[0053] The connecting channel B133 may be formed in the lower part of the partition wall B125. The connecting channel B133 may communicate with the insertion space B134. The connecting channel B133 may open on one side of the upper body B120. When the cartridge B300 is coupled to the body B100, the discharge port B323 is inserted into the connecting channel B133, and the connecting channel B133 and the cartridge discharge port B304 may communicate with each other.

[0054] Figure 5 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 6 is a combined perspective view of the body, cartridge, and upper case of the aerosol generator of Figure 5.

[0055] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, an aerosol generator A100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a body A3. The aerosol generator A100 may include an upper case A30. The aerosol generator A100 may include a cartridge A40. The cartridge A40 may be detachably coupled to one side of the body A3. The upper case A30 may be detachably coupled to the body A3 so as to cover the cartridge A40. A stick S may be inserted into the body A3 by passing through the upper case A30.

[0056] Body A3 may include a lower body A1 and an upper body A2. Components of the aerosol generating device A100, such as a battery and a control unit, may be installed inside the lower body A1. The upper body A2 can be coupled to the upper side of the lower body A1.

[0057] The upper body A2 may include a column A10 and a seating section A20. The column A10 may extend long in the vertical direction. The column A10 may have an outer wall A11, an inner wall A12, and an upper wall A13.

[0058] The seat portion A20 can protrude from the lower part of the inner wall A12 of the column A10. The seat portion A20 may face upward. The cartridge region A24 may be formed between the inner wall A12 of the column A10 and the seat portion A20. The cartridge region A24 may be located on one side of the inner wall A12 of the column A10 and above the seat portion A20.

[0059] Column A10 may have an insertion space A142. The insertion space A142 extends vertically from the inside of column A10 and may open upwards so that the upper wall A13 opens.

[0060] The body inlet A141 may be formed on one side of the column A10. The body inlet A141 may be formed by opening the inner wall A12. The body inlet A141 may open to the outside of the column A10. The body inlet A141 may communicate with the insertion space A142. The body inlet A141 may be positioned to face the cartridge region A24. The body inlet A141 may communicate with the cartridge region A24.

[0061] Cartridge A40 can be detachably coupled to the upper body A2 in the cartridge region A24. Cartridge A40 can be coupled to the inner wall A12 of column A10 and seated on the seating portion A20, with its bottom supported. Cartridge A40 may comprise a first container A41 and a second container A42. The first container A41 may be positioned above the second container A42. The first container A41 can store liquid.

[0062] The upper case A30 can cover the upper body A2 and be detachably coupled to the body A3. The upper case A30 can cover the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 coupled to the upper body A2. The upper case A30 can form a space inside into which the upper body A2 and the cartridge A40 are inserted. The internal space of the upper case A30 can open downwards. The side wall A31 of the upper case A30 can surround the sides of the internal space of the upper case A30. The top wall A33 of the upper case A30 can cover the top of the internal space of the upper case A30. An insertion opening A34 can be formed by opening the top wall A33. When the upper case A30 is coupled to the body A3, the insertion opening A34 can communicate with the insertion space A142 above it. A cover A35 can be movably installed on the top wall A33. The cover A35 can slide on the top wall A33. Cover A35 can open and close the insertion slot A34.

[0063] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge included in an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 8 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the body and cartridge of the aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 9 is a combined cross-sectional view of the body and cartridge of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 8.

[0064] Referring to Figure 7, the cartridge 19 can be coupled to the body 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The cartridge 19 may include the features of cartridges 19, A40, and B300 shown in Figures 1 to 6 above.

[0065] The cartridge 19 may include a first container 31 and a second container 32. The second container 32 may be coupled to the underside of the first container 31. The plate 35 may be coupled between the first container 31 and the second container 32.

[0066] The first container 31 may include a first chamber C1 that can store liquid inside. The first container 31 may be made of a transparent material such as plastic or glass. The first container 31 surrounds the first chamber C1, and the bottom of the first chamber C1 may be open. The opening of the first chamber C1 may be covered with a plate 35.

[0067] The second container 32 can be coupled to the bottom of the first container 31. The second container 32 may have a space that is open at the top and covered at the bottom. The second container 32 may have a second chamber C2 inside. The top of the second chamber C2 may be covered with a plate 35.

[0068] Plate 35 can be coupled between the first container 31 and the second container 32. Plate 35 can cover and seal the open portion of the first chamber C1. Plate 35 can cover and seal the open portion of the second chamber C2. The lower surface of plate 35 may be exposed inside the second chamber C2. The lower surface of plate 35 may cover the upper part of the second chamber C2.

[0069] The core 25 may be placed inside the second chamber C2. The core 25 may have a long, cylindrical shape. The core 25 is connected to the first chamber C1 and can receive liquid from the first chamber C1. Both ends of the core 25 may be connected to the first chamber C1 via liquid inflow holes provided in the plate 35. The liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can wet the core 25 through the liquid inflow holes in the plate 35. The core 25 may be fixed inside the second container 32.

[0070] The heater 24 can wind around the center of the core 25. The heater can be described as a cartridge heater. The cartridge heater 24 can generate heat to heat the core 25. For example, the cartridge heater 24 may be a resistive heater. The cartridge heater 24 may be placed inside the second chamber C2. The end of the cartridge heater 24 may be electrically connected to an electrode located at the bottom of the second container 32.

[0071] The first container 31 may be equipped with an inflow channel 302 through which air can pass. The inflow channel 302 may extend vertically along one side of the first container 31. The first chamber C1 and the inflow channel 302 may be formed side by side.

[0072] The first container 31 may be equipped with a cartridge inlet 301. The cartridge inlet can be called the first cartridge inlet. The cartridge inlet 301 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The cartridge inlet 301 may be formed by opening the top of the first container 31. The cartridge inlet 301 may communicate with the outside. External air from the cartridge 19 can flow into the inside of the cartridge 19 through the cartridge inlet 301.

[0073] The cartridge inlet 301 may communicate with the inflow channel 302. The upper end of the inflow channel 302 may communicate with the cartridge inlet 301. The lower end of the inflow channel 302 may communicate with the chamber inlet 303.

[0074] The second container 32 may be equipped with a chamber inlet 303. The chamber inlet 303 may be formed by opening one side of the side wall surrounding the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 303 may extend upward from the second chamber C2 toward the inflow channel 302. One end of the chamber inlet 303 may communicate with the second chamber C2, and the other end of the chamber inlet 303 may be connected to the inflow channel 302.

[0075] The side wall 311 of the first container 31 may include a first channel side wall 3113 and a second channel side wall 3114. The first channel side wall 3113 and the second channel side wall 3114 may constitute a part of the side wall 311 of the first container 31.

[0076] The first channel side wall 3113 may be located inside the first container 31. The first channel side wall 3113 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second channel side wall 3114 may constitute part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second channel side wall 3114 may face the first channel side wall 3113 and be spaced outward from the first channel side wall 3113. The first channel side wall 3113 and the second channel side wall 3114 may be arranged side by side. The first channel side wall 3113 and the second channel side wall 3114 may extend along the vertical direction. The inflow channel 302 may be formed between the first channel side wall 3113 and the second channel side wall 3114.

[0077] A portion of the first channel side wall 3113 may constitute the first surface 3021 of the inflow channel 302. A portion of the second channel side wall 3114 may constitute the second surface 3022 of the inflow channel 302. The first surface 3021 and the second surface 3022 extend vertically and can face each other.

[0078] The inflow channel 302 may be provided with a plurality of projections 3023. The plurality of projections 3023 may protrude from the first surface 3021 and / or the second surface 3022 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The plurality of projections 3023 may be arranged in the longitudinal direction of the inflow channel 302 or in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, and may be arranged to cross the inflow channel 302 and obstruct a portion of one end surface of the inflow channel 302.

[0079] The multiple protrusions 3023 can have at least a portion protruding from the first surface 3021 and the remaining portion protruding from the second surface 3022. The multiple protrusions 3023 may include a first protrusion 3023A protruding from the first surface 3021 and a second protrusion 3023B protruding from the second surface 3022. The multiple protrusions 3023 may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first protrusion 3023A and the second protrusion 3023B may be arranged alternately on the first surface 3021 and the second surface 3022.

[0080] Therefore, the multiple protrusions 3023 prevent the liquid or droplets inside the cartridge 19 from flowing out of the cartridge through the inflow channel 302 and the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0081] The second container 32 may be equipped with a cartridge outlet 304. The cartridge outlet can be described as an outlet. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed on one side 321 of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may be formed inside an outlet port 323 that protrudes in the thickness direction from the side 321 of the second container 32. The cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with the internal space of the second container 32.

[0082] A discharge channel 305 may be formed inside the discharge port 323. The cartridge outlet 304 may communicate with the second chamber C2 via the discharge channel 305. The discharge channel 305 may constitute part of the first channel 51. The first channel 51 can be defined as a channel that connects the insertion space 434 provided in the body 10 (see Figures 8 and 9) with the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19. The second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19 may be connected to one side of the discharge channel 305. The second chamber C2 may communicate with the interior of the body 10 via the discharge channel 305 and the outlet 304.

[0083] Air can flow into the cartridge 19 through the cartridge inlet 301 and be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 19 through the cartridge outlet 304. The air that flows into the cartridge 19 can be discharged to the outside of the cartridge 19 by sequentially passing through the inlet channel 302, the chamber inlet 303, the second chamber C2, the discharge channel 305, and the cartridge outlet 304.

[0084] When the cartridge heater 24 generates heat and heats the wick 25, an aerosol can be formed from the wick 25 in the second chamber C2. The air passing through the cartridge 19 can be discharged to the cartridge outlet 304 along with the aerosol in the second chamber C2.

[0085] A second channel 52 may be formed on one side of the first container 31 and / or the second container 32. The second channel 52 allows external air from the cartridge 19 to pass through. One side of the second channel 52 may open toward the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with the first channel 51.

[0086] The side wall 311 of the first container 31 may include a first side wall 3111 and a second side wall 3112. The first side wall can be called an inner wall, and the second side wall can be called an outer wall. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 can constitute a part of the side wall 311 of the first container 31.

[0087] The first side wall 3111 may be located inside the first container 31. The first side wall 3111 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second side wall 3112 may constitute part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second side wall 3112 may face the first side wall 3111 and be spaced outward from the first side wall 3111. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 may be arranged side by side. The first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112 may extend along the vertical direction. Part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first side wall 3111 and the second side wall 3112.

[0088] The upper wall 312 of the first container 31 may include a first upper wall 3121 and a second upper wall 3122. The first upper wall can be called the inner upper wall, and the second upper wall can be called the outer upper wall. The first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122 can constitute a part of the upper wall 312 of the first container 31.

[0089] The first upper wall 3121 may be located inside the first container 31. The first upper wall 3121 may be in contact with the first chamber C1. The second upper wall 3122 may constitute part of the outer wall of the first container 31. The second upper wall 3122 may face the first upper wall 3121 and move outward from the first upper wall 3121. The first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122 may be located side by side. The first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122 may extend along the left-right direction. Part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first upper wall 3121 and the second upper wall 3122.

[0090] The first container 31 may be equipped with a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. External air from the cartridge 19 can flow into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0091] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the discharge flow path 305, which is part of the first flow path 51.

[0092] The second channel 52 may communicate with the first channel 51 on one side of the first channel 51. A merging section 53 may be formed in the first channel 51 where the second channel 52 merges with the first channel 51. A merging section 53 may be formed in the discharge channel 305, which constitutes a part of the first channel 51, where the second channel 52 merges with the discharge channel 305. The merging section 53 may be formed by opening one side of the discharge channel 305.

[0093] Air flowing in through the second cartridge inlet 306 can flow inside the second channel 52 and then flow into the first channel 51 through the confluence 53. The air inside the first channel 51 is mixed with aerosols in the first channel 51 and can then flow into the body 10 through the first channel 51.

[0094] The first channel 51 may be provided with a first membrane 54. The first membrane 54 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first channel 51 and positioned to cross the first channel 51 and block one end face of the first channel 51. The first membrane 54 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the discharge channel 305 which constitutes a part of the first channel 51 and positioned to cross the discharge channel 305 and block one end face of the discharge channel 305.

[0095] The first membrane 54 may be a film having selective permeability. The first membrane 54 may be a film. The first membrane 54 may selectively allow fluids to pass through. The first membrane 54 may not be permeable to liquids. The first membrane 54 may allow gases to pass through. The first membrane 54 may allow gaseous aerosols to pass through. The first membrane 54 may be formed from a fabric. The first membrane 54 may be formed from a synthetic resin. The synthetic resin may have selective permeability. The first membrane 54 may be formed in a lattice structure, but is not limited thereto, and can be formed in a variety of shapes and thicknesses.

[0096] The first membrane 54 may be positioned upstream of the confluence 53 on the first flow path 51. The first membrane 54 may be positioned upstream of the confluence 53 on the discharge flow path 305 which defines a portion of the first flow path 51. The first membrane 54 may be positioned between the confluence 53 and the second chamber C2. The first membrane 54 can block liquid present inside the second chamber C2 from flowing out of the cartridge 19 through the discharge flow path 305 and the cartridge outlet 304. The first membrane 54 can block liquid inside the second chamber C2 from flowing out of the cartridge 19 through the second flow path 52 and the second inlet 306. The first membrane 54 can block liquid inside the second chamber C2 from being inhaled by the user through the cartridge 19 and the body 10.

[0097] Therefore, the problem of liquid material leaking outside the cartridge can be reduced, and the sensation of heat that the user may feel from inhaling hot liquid can be lowered.

[0098] Therefore, by providing an additional second channel in the cartridge, the increase in suction resistance caused by the membrane can be compensated for.

[0099] The width of the second channel 52 may be smaller than the width of the first channel 51. For example, the maximum width of the second channel 52 may be smaller than the width of the discharge channel 305 which defines a part of the first channel 51. For example, the maximum width of the second channel 52 may be smaller than the width of the connecting channel 433 which defines a part of the first channel 51.

[0100] When the first membrane 54 is placed on the first channel 51 through which the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 flows, the suction resistance to the fluid flow passing through the first channel 51 may increase. If the suction resistance of the first channel 51 increases, the amount of aerosol and / or air that the user can inhale may decrease even if the user inhales with the same force.

[0101] In one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can compensate for a reduction in the amount of aerosol and / or air that the user can inhale by additionally providing a second channel 52. However, if the flow rate of the fluid passing through the second channel 52 is greater than the flow rate of the fluid passing through the first channel 51, the user may feel an unusual sensation when inhaling.

[0102] By making the width of the second channel 52 narrower than the width of the first channel 51, the feeling of unfamiliarity that the user may experience when inhaling can be reduced. In other words, the ratio of the width of the second channel 52 to the width of the first channel 51 can be appropriately adjusted to control the ratio of the suction resistance of the second channel 52 to the suction resistance of the first channel 51.

[0103] The second channel 52 may include a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be positioned between one end and the other end of the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second channel 52 extends, and may be positioned to cross the second channel 52 and block one end face of the second channel 52.

[0104] The second membrane 55 may be a film having selective permeability. The second membrane 55 may have the same or similar properties as the first membrane 54. For example, the second membrane 55 may be formed from the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0105] The second membrane 55 may be positioned upstream of the confluence 53 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to one end of the second channel 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second channel 52.

[0106] The second membrane 55 can block liquid from outside the cartridge 19 from flowing into the cartridge 19. The second membrane 55 can block liquid or droplets generated in the first channel 51 and / or the second channel 52 from flowing out of the cartridge 19 through the second inlet 306.

[0107] Therefore, the problem of liquid material leaking outside the cartridge can be reduced.

[0108] The second membrane 55 can act as a flow resistance component against outside air that flows into the second channel 52 due to the user's inhalation. In other words, the second membrane 55 can increase the suction resistance to the fluid flow passing through the second channel 52.

[0109] By positioning the second membrane 55 on the second channel 52 which communicates with the first channel 51, the feeling of unfamiliarity that the user may experience when inhaling can be reduced. In other words, the second membrane 55 allows for appropriate adjustment of the ratio of the suction resistance of the second channel 52 to the suction resistance of the first channel 51.

[0110] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the cartridge 19 can be inserted into the attachment / detachment space 424 of the body 10. The cartridge 19 can be detachably coupled to the body 10 in the attachment / detachment space 424.

[0111] Body 10 may include an upper body 410 and a lower body 420. The upper body 410 may be positioned above the lower body 420. The upper body 410 may be positioned above the lower body 420, facing and alongside the cartridge 19. The lower body 420 can house at least one of the power supply 11 and the control unit 12 (see Figures 1 and 2). The upper body 410 can house at least one of the heater 18 and the sensor 13.

[0112] The upper body 410 may have an elongated insertion space 434. The insertion space 434 may include an insertion opening 4341 that extends elongated in the longitudinal direction of the upper body 410 and is formed by opening on one side. The insertion opening 4341 may be formed by opening a portion of the upper wall 412 of the upper body 410. A stick S can be inserted into the insertion space 434. A heater 24 may be positioned around the insertion space 434. The heater 24 may be positioned to surround the insertion space 434.

[0113] A body inlet 435 may be formed in the upper body 410. The body inlet 435 may be formed in the side wall 411 of the upper body 410. The body inlet 435 may be connected to the inside of the cartridge 19. By inserting the discharge port 323 of the cartridge 19 into the body inlet 435, the body inlet 435 and the cartridge discharge port 304 can communicate.

[0114] A connecting channel 433 may be formed in the upper body 410. The connecting channel 433 can connect the insertion space 434 of the body 10 to the second chamber C2 of the cartridge 19. The connecting channel 433 may constitute part of the first channel 51. The connecting channel 433 may communicate with the discharge channel 305 of the cartridge 19. The connecting channel 433 together with the discharge channel 305 may constitute the first channel 51. Part of the first channel 51 may be defined by the connecting channel 433, and the remaining part of the first channel 51 may be defined by the discharge channel 305.

[0115] The body inlet 435 may be positioned below the insertion opening 4341. The body inlet 435 and the insertion opening 4341 may communicate with each other. The directions in which the body inlet 435 and the insertion opening 4341 are formed may be different from each other. For example, the insertion opening 4341 may open toward the upper side of the body 10, and the body inlet 435 may open toward a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

[0116] The upper body 410 may have a support surface 422 extending to one side from the lower part of the side wall 411 of the upper body 410. The support surface 422 may face the lower part of the attachment / detachment space 424. The attachment / detachment space 424 may be partitioned by the side wall 411 and the support surface 422 of the upper body 410. The attachment / detachment space 424 may be located alongside the insertion space 434.

[0117] The cartridge 19 can be coupled to the body 10 in the attachment / detachment space 424. The side wall 311 of the cartridge 19 can face the side wall 411 of the upper body 410. The bottom 322 of the cartridge 19 can be supported by contacting the support surface 422 of the upper body 410. The bottom can be called the lower wall. The cartridge 19 can be electrically connected to other components inside the aerosol generator 1 by contacting the support surface 422.

[0118] The first channel 51 may include a third membrane 56. The third membrane 56 is arranged in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first channel 51 and may be positioned to cross the first channel 51 and block one end face of the first channel 51.

[0119] The third membrane 56 may be a film having selective permeability. The third membrane 56 may have the same or similar properties as the first membrane 54. For example, the third membrane 56 may be formed from the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0120] The third membrane 56 may be positioned on the first channel 51 downstream of the confluence 53. The third membrane 56 may be positioned on the connecting channel 433 which defines a portion of the first channel 51. The third membrane 56 may be positioned between the confluence 53 and the insertion space 434. The third membrane 54 may be positioned on the first channel 51 adjacent to the insertion space 434. The third membrane 54 may be positioned on the connecting channel 433 adjacent to the insertion space 434.

[0121] The third membrane 56 can block liquid or droplets generated in the first channel 51 and / or the second channel 52 from flowing out of the body 10 through the insertion space 434 and the insertion port 4341, or from being inhaled by the user.

[0122] Therefore, it is possible to reduce the inhalation of droplets generated by the cooling of aerosols flowing inside the body by the user.

[0123] Figures 10 to 12 are cross-sectional views of cartridges included in an aerosol generating apparatus according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] Referring to Figure 10, the cartridge 19 may be equipped with a second flow path 52. Of the features of the cartridge 19 shown in Figure 10, detailed explanations of features that overlap with the explanations in Figures 7 to 9 will be omitted.

[0125] A second channel 52 may be formed on one side of the first container 31 and / or the second container 32. The second channel 52 allows external air from the cartridge 19 to pass through. One side of the second channel 52 may open to the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with the first channel 51.

[0126] The side wall 321 of the second container 32 may include a first side wall 3211 and a second side wall 3212. The first side wall can be called an inner wall, and the second side wall can be called an outer wall. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 can constitute a part of the side wall 321 of the second container 32.

[0127] The first side wall 3211 may be located inside the second container 32. The first side wall 3211 may be in contact with the second chamber C2. The second side wall 3212 may constitute part of the outer wall of the second container 32. The second side wall 3212 may face the first side wall 3211 and be spaced outward from the first side wall 3211. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 may be arranged side by side. The first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 may extend along the vertical direction. Part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212.

[0128] The lower wall 322 of the second container 32 may include a first lower wall 3221 and a second lower wall 3222. The first lower wall can be called the inner lower wall, and the second lower wall can be called the outer lower wall. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 can constitute a part of the lower wall 322 of the second container 32.

[0129] The first lower wall 3221 may be located inside the second container 32. The first lower wall 3221 may be in contact with the second chamber C2. The second lower wall 3222 may constitute part of the outer wall of the second container 32. The second lower wall 3222 may face the first lower wall 3221 and move outward from the first lower wall 3221. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 may be located side by side. The first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 may extend along the left-right direction. Part of the second flow path 52 may be formed between the first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222.

[0130] The second container 32 may be equipped with a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. External air from the cartridge 19 can flow into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0131] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the discharge flow path 305, which is part of the first flow path 51.

[0132] Air flowing in through the second cartridge inlet 306 can flow inside the second channel 52 and then flow into the first channel 51 through the confluence 53. The air inside the first channel 51 is mixed with aerosols in the first channel 51 and can then flow into the body 10 through the first channel 51.

[0133] The second channel 52 may include a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be positioned between one end and the other end of the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second channel 52 extends, and may be positioned to cross the second channel 52 and block one end face of the second channel 52.

[0134] The second membrane 55 may be positioned upstream of the confluence 53 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to one end of the second channel 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second channel 52.

[0135] Referring to Figure 11, the cartridge 19 may include a fourth membrane 57. Of the features of the cartridge 19 shown in Figure 11, detailed explanations of features that overlap with the explanations in Figures 7 to 9 will be omitted.

[0136] The inflow channel 302 may include a fourth membrane 57. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned between one end and the other end of the inflow channel 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the inflow channel 302 extends, and may be positioned to cross the inflow channel 302 and close one end face of the inflow channel 302.

[0137] The fourth membrane 57 may be a film having selective permeability. The fourth membrane 57 may have the same or similar properties as the first membrane 54. For example, the fourth membrane 57 may be formed from the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0138] The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned on the inflow channel 302 adjacent to one end of the inflow channel 302 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned on the inflow channel 302 adjacent to the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0139] The fourth membrane 57 can block liquid from the outside of the cartridge 19 from flowing into the inside of the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 can block liquid or droplets generated in the second chamber C2 and / or inflow channel 302 from flowing out of the cartridge 19 through the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0140] Therefore, the problem of liquid material leaking outside the cartridge can be reduced.

[0141] Referring to Figure 12, the cartridge 19 may include a second flow path 52. The cartridge 19 may also include a fourth membrane 57. Of the features of the cartridge 19 shown in Figure 12, detailed explanations of features that overlap with the explanations in Figures 7 to 11 will be omitted.

[0142] A second channel 52 may be formed on one side of the first container 31 and / or the second container 32. The second channel 52 allows external air from the cartridge 19 to pass through. One side of the second channel 52 may open to the outside of the cartridge 19, and the other side may communicate with the first channel 51.

[0143] A portion of the second channel 52 may be formed between the first side wall 3211 and the second side wall 3212 of the second container 32. A portion of the second channel 52 may be formed between the first lower wall 3221 and the second lower wall 3222 of the second container 32.

[0144] The second container 32 may be equipped with a second cartridge inlet 306. The second cartridge inlet 306 may be formed by opening one side of the cartridge 19. The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the outside. External air from the cartridge 19 can flow into the cartridge 19 through the second cartridge inlet 306.

[0145] The second cartridge inlet 306 may communicate with the second flow path 52. One end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the second cartridge inlet 306. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the first flow path 51. The other end of the second flow path 52 may communicate with the discharge flow path 305, which is part of the first flow path 51.

[0146] Air flowing in through the second cartridge inlet 306 flows inside the second channel 52 and can flow into the first channel 51 through the confluence 53. The air inside the first channel 51 is mixed with aerosols in the first channel 51 and can flow into the body 10 through the first channel 51.

[0147] The second channel 52 may include a second membrane 55. The second membrane 55 may be positioned between one end and the other end of the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the second channel 52 extends, and may be positioned to cross the second channel 52 and block one end face of the second channel 52.

[0148] The second membrane 55 may be positioned upstream of the confluence 53 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to one end of the second channel 52 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19 on the second channel 52. The second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to the second cartridge inlet 306 on the second channel 52.

[0149] The inflow channel 302 may include a fourth membrane 57. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned between one end and the other end of the inflow channel 302. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the inflow channel 302 extends, and may be positioned to cross the inflow channel 302 and close one end face of the inflow channel 302.

[0150] The fourth membrane 57 may be a film having selective permeability. The fourth membrane 57 may have the same or similar properties as the first membrane 54. For example, the fourth membrane 57 may be formed from the same material as the first membrane 54.

[0151] The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned on the inflow channel 302 adjacent to one end of the inflow channel 302 that communicates with the outside of the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 may be positioned on the inflow channel 302 adjacent to the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0152] The fourth membrane 57 can block liquid from the outside of the cartridge 19 from flowing into the inside of the cartridge 19. The fourth membrane 57 can block liquid or droplets generated in the second chamber C2 and / or inflow channel 302 from flowing out of the cartridge 19 through the first cartridge inlet 301.

[0153] Therefore, the problem of liquid material leaking outside the cartridge can be reduced.

[0154] Figure 13 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0155] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, an output unit 14, an input unit 15, a communication unit 16, a memory 17, and at least one heater 18, 24. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in Figure 13. In other words, it will be understood by those with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment that the design of the aerosol generator 1 may allow for the omission of some of the components shown in Figure 13 or the addition of new components.

[0156] The sensor 13 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 12. Based on the sensed information, the control unit 12 can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, restricting smoking, determining whether a stick S and / or cartridge 19 has been inserted, and displaying notifications.

[0157] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion sensor 133, reuse sensor 134, cartridge sensor 135, upper case sensor 136, motion sensor 137, and humidity sensor 138.

[0158] The temperature sensor 131 can sense the temperature at which the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 are heated. The aerosol generator 1 may include a separate temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, or the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 themselves may act as a temperature sensor.

[0159] The temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may include a resistive element whose resistance changes in response to temperature changes in the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The temperature sensor 131 can be implemented using a thermistor or other element that utilizes the property that resistance changes with temperature. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the resistive element as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be configured as a sensor that detects the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Here, the temperature sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 as a signal corresponding to the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0160] The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned around the power supply 11 to monitor its temperature. The temperature sensor 131 may be positioned adjacent to the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be attached to one side of the battery which is the power supply 11. For example, the temperature sensor 131 may be mounted on one side of a printed circuit board.

[0161] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the body 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0162] The puff sensor 132 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow path. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the puff. For example, the puff sensor 132 may be a pressure sensor. The puff sensor 132 can output a signal corresponding to the internal pressure of the aerosol generator. Here, the internal pressure of the aerosol generator 1 may correspond to the pressure of the airflow path through which the gas flows. The puff sensor 132 may be positioned in the aerosol generator 1 corresponding to the airflow path through which the gas flows.

[0163] The stick sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The stick sensing sensor can be described as an insertion sensing sensor. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The insertion sensing sensor 133 may be provided around the insertion space. The insertion sensing sensor 133 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the stick S by a change in dielectric constant inside the insertion space. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 133 may be an inductive sensor and / or a capacitance sensor.

[0164] An induction sensor may include at least one coil. The coil of the induction sensor may be 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 may include the frequency of the alternating current, the current value, the voltage value, the inductance value, the impedance value, etc.

[0165] Induction sensors can output signals that correspond to the characteristics of the current flowing through a coil. For example, an induction sensor can output a signal that corresponds to the inductance value of a coil.

[0166] A capacitance sensor may include a conductor. The conductor of the capacitance sensor may be 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 S including a metal wrapper is inserted into the insertion space, the wrapper of the stick S may alter the electromagnetic properties around the conductor.

[0167] The reuse detection sensor 134 can detect whether the stick S has been reused. The reuse detection sensor 134 may also be a color sensor. The color sensor can detect the hue of the stick S. The color sensor can detect the hue of a portion of the wrapper surrounding the outside of the stick S. The color sensor can detect a value for an optical property corresponding to the hue of an object based on light reflected from the object. For example, the optical property may be the wavelength of light. The color sensor may be implemented as an integrated configuration with the proximity sensor, or as a separate configuration separated from the proximity sensor.

[0168] At least a portion of the wrapper constituting the stick S can change hue due to aerosols. The reuse sensing sensor 134 may be positioned corresponding to the location where at least a portion of the wrapper whose hue changes due to aerosols is located when the stick S is inserted into the insertion space. For example, before the stick S is used by the user, at least a portion of the wrapper may have a first hue. Here, as the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 1 passes through the stick S, at least a portion of the wrapper becomes wet with the aerosol, causing the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper to change to a second hue. On the other hand, after the hue of at least a portion of the wrapper has changed from the first hue to the second hue, it may be maintained at the second hue.

[0169] The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the cartridge 19. The cartridge sensing sensor 135 can be implemented as an inductance-based sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, or a Hall sensor (Hall IC) using the Hall effect.

[0170] The upper case sensing sensor 136 can detect the installation and / or removal of the upper case. When the upper case 200 is separated from the body 10, the cartridge 19 and a portion of the body 10 that were covered by the upper case 200 may be exposed to the outside. The upper case sensing sensor 136 can be implemented by a contact sensor, a Hall sensor (Hall IC), an optical sensor, or the like.

[0171] The motion sensor 137 can detect the movement of the aerosol generator. The motion sensor 137 can be implemented using at least one of an accelerometer and a gyroscope.

[0172] The humidity sensor 138 can sense the humidity of the aerosol generator and / or the cartridge. The humidity sensor 138 can sense the humidity of the outside air and / or the humidity inside the cartridge. The humidity sensor 138 can be implemented as a capacitive sensor or the like. The humidity sensor 138 can be located on the outside of the body 10 or in the path through which outside air flows in, and can measure the humidity around the aerosol generator 1. The humidity sensor 138 can be located inside the storage section C1 of the cartridge 19, and can measure the humidity inside the cartridge 19.

[0173] Sensor 13 may further include at least one of the following, in addition to the aforementioned sensors 131 to 138: a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, a GPS position sensor, and a proximity sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed explanation can be omitted.

[0174] The output unit 14 can output and provide to the user information about the status of the aerosol generator 1. The output unit 14 may include, but is not limited to, a display 141, a haptic unit 142, and an acoustic output unit 143. If the display 141 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display 141 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0175] The display 141 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 charging / discharging status of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the preheating status of the heater 18, the insertion / removal status of the stick S and / or cartridge 19, the mounting / removal status of the upper case, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 1 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal object), and the display 141 can output this information to the outside. For example, the display 141 may be in the form of an LED light-emitting element. For example, the display 141 may be a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc.

[0176] The haptic unit 142 can convert electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli, providing the user with tactile information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, if initial power is supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 during a set time, the haptic unit 142 can generate vibrations corresponding to the completion of initial preheating. The haptic unit 142 may include a vibration motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0177] The acoustic output unit 143 can provide the user with auditory information about the aerosol generator 1. For example, the acoustic output unit 143 can convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0178] The power supply 11 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1. The power supply 11 can supply power so that the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 can be heated. The power supply 11 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of other components provided in the aerosol generator 1, namely the sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17. The power supply 11 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the power supply 11 may be, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

[0179] Although not shown in Figure 13, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power protection circuit. The power protection circuit is electrically connected to the power supply 11 and may include a switching element.

[0180] The power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 under predetermined conditions. For example, the power protection circuit can shut off the circuit to the power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 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 power supply 11 if the voltage level of the power supply 11 is less than a second voltage corresponding to over-discharge.

[0181] The heater 18 receives power from the power supply 11 and can heat the medium or aerosol-generating material inside the stick S. Although not shown in Figure 13, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the power supply 11 and supplies it to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. Furthermore, if the aerosol generator 1 generates aerosols using an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 1 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power supply of the power supply 11 to AC power.

[0182] The control unit 12, sensor 13, output unit 14, input unit 15, communication unit 16, and memory 17 can function by receiving power from the power supply 11. Although not shown in Figure 13, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a constant voltage circuit, may be further included to convert the power from the power supply 11 and supply it to each component. Also, although not shown in Figure 13, a noise filter may be provided between the power supply 11 and the heater 18. The noise filter may be a low-pass filter. The low-pass filter may include at least one inductor and a capacitor. The cutoff frequency of the low-pass filter may correspond to the frequency of the high-frequency switching current applied from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The low-pass filter prevents high-frequency noise components from being applied to the sensor 13, such as the insertion sensing sensor 133.

[0183] In one embodiment, the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may be, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys including titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, the heater 18 may be, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0184] In other embodiments, the heater 18 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 18 may include a susceptor that generates heat by a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol-generating material.

[0185] The input unit 15 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the input unit 15 may be a touch panel. The touch panel may include at least one touch sensor that senses touch. For example, the touch sensor may include, 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.

[0186] The display 141 and the touch panel can be realized by a single panel. For example, the touch panel can be embedded within the display 141 (on-cell type or in-cell type). For example, the touch panel may be added on top of the display 141 (add-on type).

[0187] On the other hand, the input section 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0188] Memory 17 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 12 and data to be processed. Memory 17 can include at least one type of storage 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 17 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 the user's smoking pattern.

[0189] The communication unit 16 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 16 may include at least one of a short-range communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0190] The short-range wireless communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0191] The wireless communication unit may include, 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.

[0192] Although not shown in Figure 13, 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 such a connection interface to send and receive information or charge the power supply 11.

[0193] The control unit 12 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1. In one embodiment, the control unit 12 may include at least one processor. The processor can also be realized by an array of numerous logic gates, or by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory storing a program executable by this microprocessor. It is also understandable to those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it can be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0194] The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the heater 18 by controlling the supply of power from the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 sensed by the temperature sensor 131. The control unit 12 can adjust the power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on a temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0195] The aerosol generator 1 may include a power supply circuit (not shown) electrically connected to the power supply 11 between the power supply 11 and the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The power supply circuit may be electrically connected to the cartridge heater 24, heater 18, or induction coil 181. The power supply circuit may include at least one switching element. The switching element can be embodied by a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), a field-effect transistor (FET), or the like. The control unit 12 can control the power supply circuit.

[0196] The control unit 12 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching elements of the power supply circuit. The power supply circuit may be an inverter that converts the DC power output from the power supply 11 into AC power. For example, the inverter can be configured as a full-bridge circuit or a half-bridge circuit that includes multiple switching elements.

[0197] The control unit 12 can turn on the switching element so that power is supplied from the power supply 11 to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can turn off the switching element so that power is cut off to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. The control unit 12 can adjust the current supplied from the power supply 11 by adjusting the frequency and / or duty cycle of the current pulse input to the switching element.

[0198] The control unit 12 can control the voltage output from the power supply 11 by controlling the switching of the switching elements in the power supply circuit. The power conversion circuit can convert the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit may include a buck converter that steps down the voltage output from the power supply 11. For example, the power conversion circuit can be implemented using a buck-boost converter, a Zener diode, or the like.

[0199] The control unit 12 can adjust the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit by controlling the on / off operation of the switching element included in the power supply circuit. When the switching element remains in the on state, the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit may correspond to the voltage level output from the power supply 11. The duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element may correspond to the ratio of the voltage output from the power conversion circuit to the voltage output from the power supply 11. The lower the duty cycle for the on / off operation of the switching element, the lower the voltage level output from the power conversion circuit can be. The heater 18 may be heated based on the voltage output from the power conversion circuit.

[0200] The control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the heater 18 using at least one of the following methods: pulse width modulation (PWM) and proportional-integral-differential (PID).

[0201] For example, the control unit 12 can use a PWM method to control the supply of current pulses having a predetermined frequency and duty cycle to the heater 18. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 by adjusting the frequency and duty cycle of the current pulses.

[0202] For example, the control unit 12 can determine a target temperature for control based on the temperature profile. The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method that uses the difference between the heater temperature 18 and the target temperature, the integral of the difference over time, and the derivative of the difference over time.

[0203] The control unit 12 can prevent the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 from overheating. For example, the control unit 12 can control the operation of the power conversion circuit to interrupt the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, the control unit 12 can reduce the amount of power supplied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by a certain ratio if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 exceeds a previously set limit temperature. For example, if the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material contained in the cartridge 19 has been exhausted and can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24.

[0204] The control unit 12 can control the charging and discharging of the power supply 11. The control unit 12 can check the temperature of the power supply 11 in accordance with the output signal of the temperature sensor 131.

[0205] When a power line is connected to the battery terminal of the aerosol generator 1, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above a first limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the charging of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the charging of the power supply 11 based on a previously set charging current. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is equal to or above the first limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can shut off the charging of the power supply 11.

[0206] With the aerosol generator 1 powered on, the control unit 12 can check whether the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, which is the criterion for shutting off the discharge of the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is below the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can control the system to use the power stored in the power supply 11. If the temperature of the power supply 11 is above the second limiting temperature, the control unit 12 can interrupt the use of the power stored in the power supply 11.

[0207] The control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 relative to the power stored in the power supply 11. For example, the control unit 12 can calculate the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 based on the voltage and / or current sensing values ​​of the power supply 11.

[0208] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S is inserted into the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. The control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been inserted based on the output signal from the insertion sensing sensor 133. If it determines that the stick S has been inserted into the insertion space, the control unit 12 can control the supply of power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18. For example, the control unit 12 can supply power to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 17.

[0209] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S has been removed from the insertion space using the insertion sensing sensor 133. For example, the control unit 12 can determine that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space if the temperature of the heater 18 is above a limit temperature or if the temperature change gradient of the heater 18 is above a set gradient. If the control unit 12 determines that the stick S has been removed from the insertion space, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0210] The control unit 12 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 18 based on the state of the stick S sensed by the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can check the level range that includes the level of the capacitance sensor signal based on a lookup table. The control unit 12 can determine the amount of moisture in the stick S based on the checked level range.

[0211] If the stick S is in an over-humidified state, the control unit 12 can control the power supply time to the heater 18, thereby increasing the preheating time of the stick S compared to normal conditions.

[0212] The control unit 12 can determine whether the stick S inserted into the insertion space has been reused by the reuse sensing sensor 134. For example, the control unit 12 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 S has not been used. For example, the control unit 12 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 S has been used. If it is determined that the stick S has been used, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0213] The control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the cartridge sensing sensor 135. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the coupling and / or removal of the cartridge 19 based on the sensing value of the signal from the cartridge sensing sensor.

[0214] The control unit 12 can determine whether the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. For example, the control unit 12 can preheat the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 by applying power, and determine whether the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds a limit temperature during the preheating period. If the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 exceeds the limit temperature, the control unit 12 can determine that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted. If the control unit 12 determines that the aerosol-generating material in the cartridge 19 has been depleted, it can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0215] The control unit 12 can determine whether the cartridge 19 has been used. For example, based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 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 12 can determine that the cartridge 19 cannot be used if the total time the heater 24 has been heated is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum time, or if the total amount of power supplied to the heater 24 is greater than or equal to a previously set maximum amount of power.

[0216] The control unit 12 can make decisions regarding the user's inhalation based on the puff sensor 132. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether a puff has occurred based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor. For example, the control unit 12 can determine the intensity of the puff based on the sensing value of the signal from the puff sensor 132. If the number of puffs reaches a pre-set maximum number of puffs or if no puff is detected for a period of time longer than a pre-set time, the control unit 12 can cut off the power supply to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0217] The control unit 12 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the upper case based on the upper case sensing sensor 136. For example, the control unit 12 can determine whether to connect and / or remove the upper case based on the sensing value of the signal from the upper case sensing sensor.

[0218] The control unit 12 can control the output unit 14 based on the results sensed by the sensor 13. For example, when the number of puffs counted by the puff sensor 132 reaches a pre-set number, the control unit 12 can notify the user that the aerosol generator 1 will immediately shut off via at least one of the display 141, the haptic unit 142, and the acoustic output unit 143. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that there is no stick S in the insertion space, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, if the control unit 12 determines that the cartridge 19 and / or upper case have not been installed, it can notify the user via the output unit 14. For example, the control unit 12 can transmit information about the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18 to the user via the output unit 14.

[0219] The control unit 12 can save and update a history of the event in the memory 17 when a predetermined event occurs. Events can include operations performed by the aerosol generator 1, such as detection of stick S insertion, start of stick S heating, puff detection, end of puffing, detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, detection of overvoltage application to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, end of stick S heating, on / off of the aerosol generator 1, start of charging of the power supply 11, detection of overcharge of the power supply 11, and end of charging of the power supply 11. The history of an event can include 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 S insertion, the log data corresponding to the event can include data such as the sensing value of the insertion detection sensor 133. For example, if a predetermined event is the detection of overheating of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the log data corresponding to the event may include data such as the temperature of the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, the voltage applied to the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18, and the current flowing through the cartridge heater 24 and / or heater 18.

[0220] The control unit 12 can be controlled to form a communication link with an external device, such as the user's mobile terminal. Upon receiving authentication data from the external device via the communication link, the control unit 12 can remove the restriction on the use of at least one function of the aerosol generator 1. Here, the authentication data may include data indicating the completion of user authentication for the user corresponding to the external device. The user can perform user authentication via 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 12 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 12 can remove the restriction on the use of the heating function that supplies power to the heater 18.

[0221] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the status of the aerosol generator 1 to the external device via a communication link formed with the external device. Based on the received status data, the external device can output the remaining capacity of the power supply 11 of the aerosol generator 1, the operating mode, and other information via the external device's display.

[0222] 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 12 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 142 can generate vibrations in response to the location search request. For example, the display 141 can output an object corresponding to the location search and the end of the search in response to the location search request.

[0223] The control unit 12 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 if a new firmware version is available. When the external device receives an input requesting a firmware download, it can receive the new firmware data and transmit the new firmware data to the aerosol generator 1. When the control unit 12 receives the new firmware data, it can control the aerosol generator 1 to perform a firmware update.

[0224] The control unit 12 can transmit data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13 to an external server (not shown) via the communication unit 16, learn the sensing values ​​from the server via machine learning such as deep learning, and receive and store the generated learning model. Using the learning model received from the server, the control unit 12 can perform operations such as determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile. The control unit 12 can store the sensing value data of at least one sensor 13 and data for training an artificial neural network (ANN) in the memory 17. For example, the memory 17 can store a database of each component provided in the aerosol generator 1, weights and biases that make up the artificial neural network (ANN) structure, etc., for training the artificial neural network (ANN). The control unit 12 can learn the data about the sensing values ​​of at least one sensor 13, the user's inhalation pattern, the temperature profile, etc., stored in the memory 17, and generate at least one learning model used for determining the user's inhalation pattern and generating a temperature profile.

[0225] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of this disclosure, by arranging a selectively permeable membrane in the flow path of the cartridge, it is possible to prevent the leakage of high-temperature liquid to the outside of the cartridge and reduce the sensation of heat that the user may feel.

[0226] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the problem of liquid material leaking to the outside of the cartridge can be reduced by arranging a selectively permeable membrane on the flow path of the cartridge.

[0227] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by placing a membrane on the flow path of the body, the problem of droplets generated by the cooling of aerosols flowing inside the body being inhaled by the user can be reduced.

[0228] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the increase in suction resistance caused by the membrane can be compensated for by providing the cartridge with an additional flow path structure.

[0229] Referring to Figures 1 to 13, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 10 having an insertion space 434 with one side open, a cartridge 19 coupled to the body 10, the cartridge 19 including a first container 31 for storing liquid inside, and a second container 32 arranged adjacent to the first container 31 and containing a wick 25 for receiving liquid from the first container 31 and a heater 24 for heating the wick 25, a first flow path 51 communicating with the insertion space 434 and the inside of the second container 32, and a second flow path 52 through which outside air flows and communicates with the first flow path 51 on one side, wherein a first membrane 54 having selective permeability may be arranged in the first flow path 51.

[0230] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first channel 51 may include a junction 53 where the second channel 52 merges with the first channel 51, and the first membrane 54 may be located between the junction 53 and the inside of the second container 32.

[0231] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first membrane 54 can allow the passage of gaseous aerosols and block the passage of liquids.

[0232] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, the present disclosure may further include a second membrane 55 disposed in the second channel 52, one end of the second channel 52 communicating with the outside of the cartridge 19, the other end of the second channel 52 communicating with the first channel 51 at the confluence 53, and the second membrane 55 being disposed between the one end and the other end of the second channel 52.

[0233] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the second membrane 55 may be positioned adjacent to one end of the second channel 52.

[0234] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the present invention further includes a third membrane 56 disposed in the first channel 51, the third membrane 56 being located downstream of the confluence 53.

[0235] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the first channel 51 may include a connecting channel 433 formed in the body 10 and communicating with the interior of the second container 32 and the insertion space 434, and a discharge channel 305 formed in the cartridge 19 and communicating with the interior of the second container 32 and the connecting channel 433.

[0236] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the third membrane 56 may be located in the connecting channel 433.

[0237] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the third membrane 56 may be positioned adjacent to the insertion space 434.

[0238] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the width of the second channel 52 may be smaller than the width of the first channel 51.

[0239] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the cartridge 19 may further include an inflow channel 302 that communicates with the inside of the second container 32 and the outside of the cartridge 19.

[0240] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, the second container 32 is located below the first container 31, and the inflow channel 302 includes a first inlet 301 that is open upward at the upper end of the cartridge 19, and the inflow channel 302 may extend vertically from inside the second container 32 to the first inlet 301.

[0241] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the inflow channel 302 may include a first surface 3021 extending in the vertical direction, a second surface 3022 extending in the vertical direction and facing the first surface, and a plurality of projections 3023 projecting from the first surface 3021 and / or the second surface 3022 in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

[0242] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the present invention further includes a fourth membrane 57 disposed in the inflow channel 302, the fourth membrane 57 may be disposed adjacent to the first inlet 301.

[0243] The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The specific or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other in terms of their respective configurations or functions.

[0244] For example, this means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in other embodiments and / or drawings. In other words, even if a combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that such a combination is possible unless it is explicitly stated that such a combination is not possible.

[0245] The foregoing detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any way and should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention should be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention are included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A body having an insertion space with one side open, A cartridge coupled to the body, comprising a first container for storing liquid internally, and a second container positioned adjacent to the first container, which includes a wick for receiving liquid from the first container and a heater for heating the wick, A first channel that communicates with the insertion space and the interior of the second container, It includes a second channel through which outside air flows in and which communicates with the first channel on one side of the first channel, An aerosol generating apparatus in which a first membrane having selective permeability is disposed in the first channel.

2. The first channel includes a junction where the second channel merges with the first channel. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first membrane is disposed between the confluence section and the inside of the second container.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first membrane allows the passage of gaseous aerosols and blocks the passage of liquids.

4. The second membrane is further disposed in the second channel, One end of the second channel communicates with the outside of the cartridge, and the other end of the second channel communicates with the first channel at the merging point. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second membrane is disposed between one end and the other end of the second flow channel.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the second membrane is arranged adjacent to one end of the second flow channel.

6. The device further includes a third membrane disposed in the first channel, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the third membrane is arranged downstream of the confluence.

7. The first channel is, A connecting channel formed in the body and communicating with the inside of the second container and the insertion space, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, comprising a discharge channel formed in the cartridge and communicating with the inside of the second container and the connecting channel.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the third membrane is arranged in the connecting channel.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the third membrane is arranged adjacent to the insertion space.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the width of the second channel is smaller than the width of the first channel.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an inflow channel provided in the cartridge and communicating with the inside of the second container and the outside of the cartridge.

12. The second container is positioned below the first container. The inflow channel is provided with a first inlet that is open upward at the upper end of the cartridge. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the inflow channel extends vertically from the inside of the second container to the first inlet.

13. The aforementioned inflow channel is The first surface extends vertically, A second surface extending in the vertical direction and facing the first surface, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a plurality of protrusions projecting from the first surface and / or the second surface in a direction intersecting the vertical direction.

14. The system further includes a fourth membrane disposed in the aforementioned inflow channel, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the fourth membrane is arranged adjacent to the first inlet.

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