Aerosol generator containing a core

Abstract

An aerosol generator comprising a first housing including an atomizing space provided inside, a first aerosol channel communicating with the atomizing space, a core disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater; a second housing including a chamber coupled to the first housing in a first direction and capable of storing an aerosol generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, and a second aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, wherein the core includes a first core portion and a second core portion protruding in the first direction at the end region of one face of the first core portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an aerosol generating device including a core.

Background Art

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

[0003] The background art described above is what the inventor retained or acquired during the process of deriving the disclosure of this specification, and it cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology that was publicly disclosed to the general public before this application.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An aerosol generating device containing an aerosol generating substance aims to generate an aerosol by heating or vibrating a liquid-phase aerosol generating substance stored in a cartridge or chamber.

[0005] The aerosol generating device has a separable structure in which one housing for storing the aerosol generating substance and another housing for generating the aerosol are separated.

[0006] The liquid-phase aerosol generating substance needs to be smoothly transmitted, and it is necessary to minimize the obstructing shape in the path through which the generated aerosol is inhaled externally.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] Aerosol generators according to various embodiments include a first housing comprising an atomizing space provided inside, a first aerosol channel communicating with the atomizing space, a core disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater; and a second housing comprising a chamber coupled to the first housing in a first direction and capable of storing an aerosol generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, and a second aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, wherein the core may include a first core portion and a second core portion protruding in the first direction at the end region of one face of the first core portion.

[0008] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the second core portion can protrude toward the second housing.

[0009] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the first core portion includes a first region that overlaps with the second core portion and a second region that does not overlap with the second core portion, and at least a portion of the heater can be attached to the second region.

[0010] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the heater further includes a heater pattern and heater terminals electrically connected to the heater pattern, and the heater pattern can be attached to the second region.

[0011] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the heater terminal can be attached to the first region.

[0012] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the aerosol generated in the atomization space by the heater can be branched by the second region and flow into the first aerosol channel.

[0013] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the aerosol that has moved to the first aerosol channel can flow to the outside through the second aerosol channel and the airflow channel.

[0014] Various embodiments of an aerosol generator include a chamber capable of storing an aerosol-generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, an aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, an atomizing space provided inside the housing communicating with the aerosol channel, a core disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater attached to the core, wherein the core may include a first core portion and a second core portion protruding toward the chamber at the end region of one face of the first core portion.

[0015] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the other side of the first core that is opposite to the one side is flat.

[0016] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the second core portion is composed of two, and the two second core portions can be separated from each other and face each other across the aerosol flow path.

[0017] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the two second core portions can surround at least a portion of the aerosol flow path.

[0018] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the length of the first core in the first direction is smaller than the length of the second core in the first direction, and the first direction may be perpendicular to the one surface of the first core.

[0019] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the heater further includes a heater pattern and heater terminals electrically connected to the heater pattern, and the heater pattern can be attached to the other side of the first core portion opposite to the one side.

[0020] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the heater terminal can be attached to the other surface of the first core.

[0021] In an aerosol generator according to one embodiment, the core may be made of porous ceramic.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] The aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of this document can combine the first housing and the second housing in a separable manner, and can smoothly transfer liquid from the second housing to the first housing.

[0023] The aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of this document can minimize the shape that hinders the flow of the generated aerosol and improve the flow efficiency of the aerosol.

[0024] However, the effects of the aerosol generating device according to an embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and different effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0025] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and play a role in better understanding the technical idea of the present invention together with the detailed description of the invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be construed as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3a] It is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3b] It is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3c] It is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3d] It is a cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3e] It is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment in a disassembled state. [Figure 3f]This is a perspective view of an aerosol generator in a disassembled state according to one embodiment. [Figure 4a] This is a front view of the core according to one embodiment. [Figure 4b] This is a plan view of the core according to one embodiment. [Figure 4c] This is a plan view of the core according to one embodiment. [Figure 5a] This is a side view of the core according to one embodiment. [Figure 5b] This is a perspective view of a core according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] The embodiments disclosed herein will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. However, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numeral regardless of their relationship to the drawings, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0028] The suffixes "module" and "part" used with respect to the constituent elements in the following description are added or used interchangeably solely for the purpose of facilitating the creation of the specification, and do not inherently possess a distinct meaning or role from one another.

[0029] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments disclosed herein, if it is determined that a specific description of the relevant prior art would obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are merely for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and should be understood that the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein, and include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that fall within the idea and scope of this disclosure.

[0030] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe multiple components, but the components are not limited by such terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0031] If it is stated that one component is “linked” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that it may also be directly linked or connected to that different component, and that other components may exist in between. On the other hand, if it is stated that one component is “directly linked” or “directly connected” to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0032] A singular expression can include multiple expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those with ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be realized in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0035] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment.

[0036] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generator 1 can include at least one of the body 10 and the cartridge 19.

[0037] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 1 may include at least one of a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a sensor 13. At least one of the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the sensor 13 may be located inside the body 10. A cartridge 19 containing the aerosol product may be mounted in the body 10. The user can inhale the aerosol by biting a mouthpiece provided at one end of the cartridge 19.

[0038] In one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can contain an aerosol-generating substance in an internal chamber 20. The aerosol-generating substance may be in one of the following states: liquid, solid, gaseous, or gel. The aerosol-generating substance may include a liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance having volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cartridge 19 can be detachably coupled to the body 10. The cartridge 19 is attached to the body 10 by being inserted into it. The body 10 is 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 passes through the cartridge 19 and flows into the user's mouth via the airflow channel 23.

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

[0041] In one embodiment, the heater 24 may be located in the cartridge 19 or the body 10. Although the drawings show the heater 24 located inside the cartridge 19, the heater 24 may be provided in the body 10 and detachably located from the cartridge 19. The heater 24 includes an electrically conductive track, which may be a coil structure winding around the liquid transport means 25. Alternatively, the heater 24 may be formed in a structure that contacts a portion of the liquid transport means 25.

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

[0043] In one embodiment, the airflow channel 23 may be provided in the cartridge 19. The airflow channel 23 can communicate the atomizing space where the heater 24 or liquid transfer means 25 is located with the outside of the cartridge. One end of the airflow channel 23 is open to the atomizing space where the heater 24 or liquid transfer means 25 is located, and the other end of the airflow channel 23 is in communication with the mouthpiece 35.

[0044] For example, referring to Figure 1, the airflow channel 23 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19 on one side of the chamber 20 of the cartridge 19. Alternatively, for example, referring to Figure 2, the airflow channel 23 may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 19, penetrating the chamber 20 of the cartridge 19.

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

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

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

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

[0049] In one embodiment, the control unit 12 can control the operation of a display, motor, and other components installed in the aerosol generator. The control unit 12 can check the status of each component of the aerosol generator and determine whether or not the aerosol generator is operational.

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

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

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

[0053] For example, sensor 13 may detect the user's puff. For example, sensor 13 may detect whether a cartridge is installed or not. For example, sensor 13 may detect the movement of the aerosol generator 1.

[0054] Figure 3a is a perspective view of the aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment, Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment, Figures 3c and 3d are cross-sectional perspective views of the aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment, Figure 3e is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator 100 in a disassembled state according to one embodiment, and Figure 3f is a perspective view of the aerosol generator 100 in a disassembled state according to one embodiment.

[0055] Referring to Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f, an aerosol generator 100 according to one embodiment (for example, aerosol generator 1 in Figure 1 or 2) includes a first housing 111 and a second housing 112.

[0056] In the following, we will omit any content that overlaps with what has been described above, and it goes without saying that in the aerosol generator, some configurations and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them by referring to the following drawings and descriptions. Furthermore, in the aerosol generator, at least one configuration or feature of the previously described embodiment may be combined, unless it is technically clearly impossible.

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

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

[0059] In one embodiment, the cover 113 can surround at least a portion of the outer circumferential surfaces of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. The cover 113 may be a separate component separable from the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. Alternatively, the cover 113 may be a part continuous with the first housing 111. The cover 113 can assist in the coupling of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0067] In one embodiment, the second housing 112 may include at least one of a chamber 127 (e.g., chamber 20 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) and an airflow channel 131 (e.g., airflow channel 23 in Figure 1 or Figure 2). The second housing 112 may store an aerosol-generating material in the chamber 127. The chamber 127 may be a storage tank.

[0068] In one embodiment, the mouthpiece 130 may be positioned on the upper side of the second housing 112 (for example, in the +Z direction). Alternatively, the mouthpiece 130 may cover the upper part of the second housing 112. The mouthpiece 130 includes an inlet 135 that communicates with the outside of the second housing 112.

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

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

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

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

[0073] In one embodiment, when the second housing 112 is coupled to the first housing 111, the second aerosol channel 129 and the first aerosol channel 119 can communicate. The user can bite down on the mouthpiece 130 and inhale air from the inlet 135. The aerosol formed in the atomization space 115 is transmitted to the inlet 135 by passing through the first aerosol channel 119, the second aerosol channel 129, and the airflow channel 131.

[0074] In one embodiment, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can be replaced independently of each other. For example, the consumption cycle of the aerosol-generating material stored in the second housing 112 and the appropriate replacement cycle of the first housing 111 may be different. The user may replace only the second housing 112 separately, or only the first housing 111 separately.

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

[0076] In one embodiment, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can form a single housing. The housing may be a sub-body or a cartridge (for example, cartridge 19 in Figure 1 or Figure 2). The housing is separate from the main body or body (for example, body 10 in Figure 1 or Figure 2) of the aerosol generator 100 and is interchangeable. The first aerosol channel 119 and the second aerosol channel 129 can form a single aerosol channel.

[0077] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 may be positioned on the upper surface of the first housing 111 (for example, the surface in the +Z direction). The first sealing member 151 may extend upward. At least a portion of the upper surface of the first sealing member 151 is open, forming a first aerosol channel 119. The first aerosol channel 119 communicates with the inside of the first housing 111 (for example, the atomization space 115).

[0078] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 can be positioned to surround at least a portion of the core 121. For example, the core 121 may be positioned below the first sealing member 151. The first sealing member 151 may constitute the upper surface of the atomization space 115.

[0079] In one embodiment, the case 155 is positioned to surround at least a portion of the core 121. The case 155 is coupled to the first sealing member 151, forming an atomization space 115 between the first sealing member 151 and the case 155.

[0080] In one embodiment, the terminals 126 can be fixedly positioned on the bottom surface of the case 155. The terminals 126 protrude upward from the case 155 toward the atomization space 115 and are connected to the heater 120. The terminals 126 may be provided in pairs, spaced horizontally apart from each other.

[0081] In one embodiment, the airflow inlet 155a can communicate with the outside of the first housing 111. The airflow inlet 155a supplies air to the atomization space 115. The airflow inlet 155a may be formed at the bottom of the case 155.

[0082] In one embodiment, multiple airflow inlets 155a may be formed, forming a porous hole shape. The airflow inlets 155a may be spaced horizontally away from the terminal 126. Alternatively, the airflow inlets 155a may be formed by opening the lateral wall of the case 155 and / or the lateral wall of the first sealing member 151. The first aerosol channel 119 may be formed at a position opposite the airflow inlets 155a.

[0083] In one embodiment, the core 121 includes a first core portion 121a and a second core portion 121b. The first core portion 121a is positioned in the atomization space 115 between the case 155 and the first sealing member 151. The second core portion 121b may protrude upward from the first core portion 121a. However, this is merely an example, and the core portion 121 can be realized in various shapes.

[0084] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b can be positioned to penetrate the first sealing member 151. The second core portion 121b may be exposed to the outside of the first housing 111. The second core portion 121b is a region through which aerosol-generating material is transferred from the second housing 112.

[0085] In one embodiment, the heater 120 can be coupled to the first core portion 121a. For example, the heater 120 may be insert-coupled to the lower surface of the first core portion 121a (e.g., the surface in the -Z direction). The heater 120 heats the first core portion 121a.

[0086] In this embodiment, the first sealing member 151 can cover the upper surface of the case 155. The first sealing member 151 is formed of an elastic material. For example, the first sealing member 151 may be made of rubber or silicone material.

[0087] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 includes a sealing surface 151a. The sealing surface 151a may have a shape that surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the second core portion 121b of the core 121.

[0088] In one embodiment, the core 121 can be formed from a porous rigid body that absorbs aerosol-generating substances. For example, the core 121 may be formed from a porous ceramic. The core 121 has greater rigidity and heat resistance than when it is made of cotton. The core 121 is made of a material that does not deform in shape or deforms only slightly in shape. Furthermore, the durability of the core 121 is improved, and the replacement cycle of the first housing 111 to which the core 121 is attached can be increased.

[0089] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a may extend elongated horizontally to one side (for example, in the X-axis direction). The first core portion 121a may have a hexahedral shape. The upper and lower surfaces of the first core portion 121a may be formed substantially horizontally. The side surface of the first core portion 121a may be formed between the upper and lower surfaces.

[0090] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b protrudes upward from the center of the upper surface of the first core portion 121a. The second core portion 121b may extend vertically (for example, in the +Z direction). One core 121 includes two second core portions 121b. The two second core portions 121b may be spaced apart from each other.

[0091] In one embodiment, the lower surface of the second core portion 121b overlaps with the upper surface of the first core portion 121a. The first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b may be formed from a single continuous body. Alternatively, the first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b may be formed by joining them together.

[0092] In one embodiment, the heater 120 can be attached to the first core portion 121a. The heater 120 may form a pattern on the lower surface of the first core portion 121a. For example, the heater 120 can form various patterns along the longitudinal direction of the first core portion 121a.

[0093] In one embodiment, the airflow inlet 155a and the first aerosol channel 119 may be arranged in parallel in the vertical direction (for example, in the Z-axis direction). For example, the airflow inlet 155a may be formed on the lower side of the atomization space 115. The first aerosol channel 119 may be formed on the upper side of the atomization space 115. Air flows into the atomization space 115 through the airflow inlet 155a and is discharged to the outside of the atomization space 115 through the first aerosol channel 119. The aerosol generated by heating the wick 121 and the surrounding air can flow toward the first aerosol channel 119.

[0094] In one embodiment, the second sealing member 152 may be positioned on the lower surface of the second housing 112 (for example, the -Z direction surface). The second sealing member 152 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the first housing 111 and the first sealing member 151 when the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are coupled together. The second sealing member 152 forms a second aerosol channel 129 that is open to the inside.

[0095] In one embodiment, the second sealing member 152 may be a part of the second housing 112 or a part of the structure. For example, the second sealing member 152 may be formed integrally with the lower surface of the second housing 112, or it may be a part of the area surrounding the absorbent member 158 that is exposed on the lower surface of the second housing 112.

[0096] In one embodiment, the chamber hole 127a can communicate with the chamber 127. The chamber hole 127a may be formed at the bottom of the chamber 127. The aerosol-generating material stored in the chamber 127 is transmitted to the core 121 through the chamber hole 127a.

[0097] In one embodiment, the absorbent member 158 can be positioned below the chamber hole 127a. The absorbent member 158 can absorb aerosol-generating substances that have passed through the chamber hole 127a. For example, the absorbent member 158 may be made of felt material. When the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are joined, the absorbent member 158 and the second core portion 121b may face each other.

[0098] In one embodiment, a protective film can be detachably attached to the lower surface of the absorbent member 158. The protective film is made of a waterproof material. The protective film can prevent leakage of aerosol-generating substances from the absorbent member 158. Before coupling the second housing 112 to the first housing 111, the user can detach the protective film from the absorbent member 158.

[0099] In one embodiment, when the second housing 112 is coupled with the first housing 111, the second housing 112 can supply aerosol-generating material to the core 121. For example, aerosol-generating material stored in the chamber 127 passes through the chamber hole 127a and is absorbed by the absorbent member 158. The absorbent member 158, having absorbed the aerosol-generating material, then comes into contact with the second core portion 121b and transmits the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material absorbed by the second core portion 121b spreads to the first core portion 121a. The heater 120 heats the first core portion 121a, which has absorbed the aerosol-generating material, to generate an aerosol.

[0100] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 151 can seal a portion of the core 121 that protrudes to the outside from the atomization space 115. When the second housing 112 is coupled to the upper side of the first housing 111, the first sealing member 151 seals the space between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112.

[0101] Figure 4a is a front view of the core 121 according to one embodiment, Figure 4b is a plan view of the core 121 according to one embodiment, Figure 4c is a plan view of the core 121 according to one embodiment, Figure 5a is a side view of the core 121 according to one embodiment, and Figure 5b is a perspective view of the core 121 according to one embodiment.

[0102] In the following, we will omit any content that overlaps with what has been described above, and of course, in the aerosol generator 100, some configurations and structures may be replaced, added, or omitted to the extent that a person skilled in the art can easily understand them by referring to the following drawings and descriptions. Furthermore, the aerosol generator 100 may be combined with at least one configuration or feature of the previously described embodiment, as long as it is not technically impossible.

[0103] For example, the core 121 and the aerosol generator 100 containing it shown in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c are substantially identical to the core 121 and the aerosol generator 100 containing it shown in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f, or at least some components may be omitted, added, or replaced.

[0104] The term "substantially" in this document means the same level, reflecting the general tolerances or errors in manufacturing processes. Alternatively, "substantially" refers to a range that includes any one of the following ranges, based on the same 0% base: + / -0.1%, + / -0.5%, + / -1%, + / -3%, + / -5%, + / -7%, + / -10%, + / -15%, and + / -20%.

[0105] Referring to Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c, a core 121 according to one embodiment (for example, the core 121 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) includes a first core portion 121a (for example, the first core portion 121a in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and a second core portion 121b (for example, the second core portion 121b in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f).

[0106] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b may each have a shape that is symmetrical with respect to a single axis (for example, axis Z1 in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c) parallel to the first direction (for example, the + / -Z direction in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c) to which the first housing 111 (for example, the first housing 111 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and the second housing 112 (for example, the second housing 112 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) are joined (for example, the + / -Z direction in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c).

[0107] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a may include an upper surface 122a, a lower surface 123a opposite the upper surface, and side surfaces located between the upper surface 122a and the lower surface 123a. For example, the first core portion 121a may be substantially hexahedral in shape.

[0108] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a includes a central region adjacent to the first aerosol channel 119 (for example, a second region 125a in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c) and an end region surrounding the central region (for example, a first region 124a in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c). The central region and the end region may be formed integrally.

[0109] In one embodiment, one surface of the first core portion 121a (for example, the upper surface 122a of the first core portion) is divided into a central region and an end region surrounding the central region. One surface of the first core portion 121a is flat.

[0110] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b may be configured to protrude from the end region of one face of the first core portion 121a. The second core portion 121b protrudes in the first direction (for example, the + / -Z direction in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) where the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are joined. As an example, the second core portion 121b may protrude in a substantially hexahedral shape.

[0111] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b may project toward the second housing 112 at the end region of one face of the first core portion 121a. For example, if the second housing 112 is coupled to the upper side of the first housing 111 (for example, the side where the first housing 111 is facing +Z in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f), the second core portion 121b may project toward the upper side of the first housing 111.

[0112] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b may protrude toward a chamber 127 included in the housing (for example, the chamber 127 in Figure 3a). The chamber 127 is located on the upper side of the core 121 (for example, the side where the core is facing +Z in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f), where the second core portion 121b may protrude toward the chamber 127.

[0113] In one embodiment, the other surface opposite to one surface of the first core portion 121a (for example, the lower surface 123a of the first core portion) is flat.

[0114] In one embodiment, the second core portion 121b may consist of two parts. The two second core portions 121b-1 and 121b-2 are separated and facing each other across the aerosol channel. For example, the two second core portions 121b-1 and 121b-2 may be separated and facing each other across the first aerosol channel 119. In another embodiment, the second core portion 121b may consist of three or more parts.

[0115] In one embodiment, the two second core portions 121b-1 and 121b-2 can surround at least a portion of the aerosol channel, where the aerosol channel may be the first aerosol channel 119. For example, the two second core portions 121b-1 and 121b-2 may surround two opposing sides of the first aerosol channel 119 (for example, the side in Figure 4a where the first aerosol channel 119 faces + / -X).

[0116] In one embodiment, the length H1 of the first core portion 121a in the first direction is smaller than the length H2 of the second core portion 121b in the first direction. Here, the first direction may be the direction in which the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are joined, or the direction perpendicular to one surface of the first core portion 121a (for example, the upper surface 122a of the first core portion 121a) (for example, the + / -Z direction in Figure 4a).

[0117] If the length H1 of the first core portion 121a in the first direction is smaller than the length H2 of the second core portion 121b in the first direction, when the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are joined, the length of the second core portion 121b exposed to the outside of the first housing 111 increases. For example, if the length of the core 121 in the first direction is fixed, making the second core portion 121b longer than the first core portion 121a increases the ratio of the second core portion 121b in the first direction, and the length of the second core portion 121b exposed to the outside of the first housing 111 increases. If the length of the second core portion 121b exposed to the outside of the first housing 111 is long, it is easier to bring the absorbent member 158 (for example, the absorbent member 158 in Figure 3a) into contact with the second core portion 121b when the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are joined.

[0118] Furthermore, if the length of the core 121 in the first direction is fixed, and the length H1 of the first core portion 121a in the first direction is smaller than the length H2 of the second core portion 121b in the first direction, the total volume of the core 121 decreases. As the volume to which the aerosol-generating substance is transferred decreases, the liquid transfer efficiency increases.

[0119] Therefore, the aerosol-generating material that has passed through the second core portion 121b can reach one or the other surface of the first core portion 121a more quickly, thereby improving the liquid transfer efficiency. If the liquid transfer efficiency is increased, the aerosol-generating material can be quickly transmitted to the first core portion 121a around the heater 120 even if puffing is repeated, and carbonization will not occur.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first core portion 121a includes a first region 124a and a second region 125a. The first region 124a is a region that overlaps with the second core portion 121b, and the second region is a region that does not overlap with the second core portion 121b. The first region 124a and the second region 125a can together constitute the first core portion 121a.

[0121] In one embodiment, the first region 124a where the first core portion 121a and the second core portion 121b overlap is the region from the part of one surface of the first core portion 121a on which the second core portion 121b protrudes (the upper surface 122a of the first core portion 121a) that is in contact with the second core portion 121b to the other surface opposite to that surface of the first core portion 121a (for example, the lower surface 123a of the first core portion).

[0122] In one embodiment, the first region 124a may substantially coincide with the end region of the first core portion 121a, and the second region 125a may substantially coincide with the central region of the first core portion 121a.

[0123] In one embodiment, the length H11 of the first region 124a in the first direction and the length H12 of the second region 125a in the first direction may be the same. The first region 124a and the second region can form a first core portion 121a substantially flat and integrally without any steps.

[0124] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the heater 120 can be attached to the second region 125a. The heater 120 is attached to the underside of the second region 125a (for example, the side where the second region 125a faces -Z in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c).

[0125] In one embodiment, the heater 120 includes a heater pattern 138 and a heater terminal 128 electrically connected to the heater pattern 138. The heater pattern 138 may be attached to one surface of the first core portion 121a opposite to the other surface (for example, the lower surface 123a of the first core portion). The heater terminal 128 may be attached to the other surface of the first core portion 121a opposite to the other surface (for example, the lower surface 123a of the first core portion). The heater terminal 128 may be attached to the same surface on which the heater pattern 138 is attached to the first core portion 121a.

[0126] In one embodiment, the heater pattern 138 may be attached to the second region 125a. The heater pattern 138 may be attached to the underside of the second region 125a (for example, in Figure 4a, the side where the second region 125a faces -Z). The heater terminal 128 may be attached to the first region 124a. The heater terminal 128 may be attached to the underside of the first region 124a (for example, in Figure 4a, the side where the first region 124a faces -Z). The heater pattern 138 and the heater terminal 128 may be connected at the boundary between the first region 124a and the second region 125a.

[0127] If the heater pattern 138 is attached to the second region 125a, the second core portion 121b is not present on the upper side of the heater pattern 138 (for example, on the side where the heater pattern 138 is facing +Z in Figure 4c). If the second core portion 121b is not present on the upper side of the heater pattern 138, the aerosol generated by heating the heater pattern 138 is not obstructed by the second core portion 121b and can flow into the first aerosol channel 119.

[0128] Specifically, the aerosol generated by the heater pattern 138 is branched by the second region 125a and flows immediately into the first aerosol channel 119 via the first core 121a, thereby increasing the aerosol transport efficiency. The generated aerosol can flow into the first aerosol channel 119 without being obstructed by the first region 124a and the second core 121b. The branching of the aerosol by the second region 125a will be described later with reference to Figures 4d and 4e.

[0129] In one embodiment, if the second core portion 121b is composed of two, there may be two corresponding first regions 124a. When the two second core portions 121b-1 and 121b-2 are separated and facing each other across the first aerosol channel 119, the second region 125a is located between the two first regions 124a. One heater terminal 128 may be attached to the underside of each of the two first regions 124a (for example, the side of the first region 124a in Figure 4c facing -Z). The heater pattern 138 is attached to the second region 125a and connected to each heater terminal 128 attached to the two first regions 124a. The two connection points between the heater pattern 138 and the heater terminals 128 may be the two boundaries between the second region 125a and the two first regions 124a.

[0130] The aerosol flow path will be explained with reference to Figures 5a and 5b.

[0131] In one embodiment, air supplied to the atomization space 115 (for example, the atomization space 115 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) via the airflow inlet 155a (for example, the airflow inlet 155a in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) flows along path PA to heater 120. The aerosol generated in the atomization space 115 by heater 120 is branched along with the air by a second region 125a and flows through two paths PA1 and PA2 to the first aerosol flow path 119.

[0132] If the aerosol generated by the heater 120 in the atomization space 115 is branched by the second region 125a, the aerosol will flow with minimal direct and indirect influence from the first region 124a and the second core 121b, and will immediately flow into the first aerosol channel 119 via the first core 121a, thereby increasing the aerosol transport efficiency.

[0133] In one embodiment, the aerosol that has moved to the first aerosol channel 119 moves via paths PA31 and PA32 to the second aerosol channel 129 (for example, the second aerosol channel 129 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and the airflow channel 131 (for example, the airflow channel 131 in Figures 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, and 3f) and flows to the outside of the aerosol generator 100.

[0134] Any or other embodiment of the disclosure described above is not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. Any or other embodiment of the disclosure described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other in terms of their respective configurations or functions.

[0135] For example, it means that a configuration B described in a different embodiment and / or drawing may be combined with a configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing. That is, even if the combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that they can be combined, except in cases where it is stated that they cannot be combined.

[0136] The above detailed description should not be interpreted restrictively in any respect 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 first housing including an atomizing space provided inside, a first aerosol channel communicating with the atomizing space, a core placed in the atomizing space, and a heater, A second housing comprising a chamber coupled to the first housing in a first direction and capable of containing an aerosol-generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, and a second aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, Includes, The core includes a first core portion and a second core portion that protrudes in the first direction from the end region of one surface of the first core portion, in an aerosol generating device.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second core portion protrudes toward the second housing.

3. The first core portion is, The first region overlapping with the second core portion, A second region that does not overlap with the second core portion, Includes, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the heater is attached to the second region.

4. The heater further includes a heater pattern and heater terminals electrically connected to the heater pattern. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the heater pattern is attached to the second region.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the heater terminal is attached to the first region.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the aerosol generated in the atomization space by the heater is branched by the second region and flows into the first aerosol channel.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 6, wherein the aerosol flowed into the first aerosol channel flows to the outside via the second aerosol channel and the airflow channel.

8. A housing comprising a chamber capable of containing an aerosol-generating substance, an airflow channel surrounded by the chamber and communicating with the outside, an aerosol channel communicating with the airflow channel, an atomizing space provided inside the housing communicating with the aerosol channel, a core disposed in the atomizing space, and a heater attached to the core, Includes, The aerosol generator comprises a core including a first core portion and a second core portion that protrudes toward the chamber at the end region of one face of the first core portion.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the other surface of the first core that is opposite to the one surface is flat.

10. The aforementioned second core section consists of two parts. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the two second core portions are separated from each other and face each other across the aerosol flow path.

11. The aerosol generator according to claim 10, wherein the two second core portions surround at least a portion of the aerosol flow path.

12. The length of the first core portion in the first direction is, Smaller than the length of the second core in the first direction, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first direction is a direction perpendicular to the one surface of the first core portion.

13. The heater further includes a heater pattern and heater terminals electrically connected to the heater pattern. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the heater pattern is attached to the other side of the first core that is opposite to the one side.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the heater terminal is attached to the other surface of the first core portion.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the core is made of porous ceramic.

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