Aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating apparatus is disclosed. The aerosol generating apparatus of this disclosure includes a body, a hollow heater disposed in the body and having an insertion space with one side open and having an electrically conductive track inside, a circuit board disposed in the body, and a lead disposed at one end of the heater and connected to the electrically conductive track and the circuit board, wherein the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the lead is 6 to 10 ppm / °C.

Description

Technical Field

[0007] ,

[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 with various components. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances with 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] In an aerosol generating device that uses a resistive heating heater and senses the temperature by the change in the resistance of the heater without a separate temperature sensor, the change in the resistance of the lead for connecting the heater and the drive circuit acts as noise. If the change in the resistance of the lead is large, the temperature of the heater cannot be accurately measured. If the temperature of the heater is inaccurately measured, the heating temperature of the heater cannot be accurately controlled. Therefore, there is a problem that the atomization amount or the flavor changes, and the satisfaction felt by the user drops.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] <00,00019>The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems and other problems.

[0005] Another object is to provide an aerosol generating device in which the temperature coefficient of resistance of the lead of the heater is much smaller than the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track.

[0006] Still another object is to provide an aerosol generating device in which the resistance value of the lead of the heater is much smaller than the resistance value of the electrically conductive track.

[0007] Another objective is to provide an aerosol generating device in which the heating tracks, among the heating tracks of the electrically conductive track, are arranged on the outer casing and are long and wide. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the above-mentioned objectives, an aerosol generator is provided, comprising a body; a hollow heater disposed in the body and having an insertion space with one side open and having an electrically conductive track inside; a circuit board disposed in the body; and a lead disposed at one end of the heater and connected to the electrically conductive track and the circuit board, wherein the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the lead is 6 to 10 ppm / °C. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately determined based on the heater's resistance value because the temperature coefficient of resistance of the leads of the resistance-heated heater is much smaller than that of the electrically conductive track.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the resistance of the leads of a resistance-heated heater is significantly lower than the resistance of the electrically conductive track, thereby reducing the heat generated in the leads and increasing the heating efficiency of the heater.

[0011] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the resistance of the leads of the resistance heating heater is significantly lower than the resistance of the electrically conductive track, thereby preventing the device from being heated in parts other than the heater.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by providing a structure in which the heating tracks arranged on the outer casing of each heating track of the electrically conductive track are long and wide, the heating temperature deviation of each part of the hollow heater can be reduced, and the stick inserted into the heater can be heated uniformly.

[0013] 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]

[0014] [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 figure shows a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This is a front perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows a susceptor of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows a bracket for a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This figure shows a bracket for a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This figure shows the electrically conductive track of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the electrically conductive track of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]There is a diagram illustrating a circuit for measuring the heater resistance of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] It is a graph illustrating the change in resistance value according to the temperature of a heater assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] It is a graph illustrating the change in the resistance ratio between an electrically conductive track and a lead due to heating of a heater assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] It is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Even if the same or similar components are illustrated in different drawings, the same reference numerals are given, and redundant explanations thereof are omitted.

[0016] 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.

[0017] Also, in the following description of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a detailed description of related known technologies may obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, the detailed description thereof is omitted. Further, the accompanying drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the accompanying drawings should be construed to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] 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.

[0019] When we say that one component is "linked" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that it may be directly linked or connected to the other component, but there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when we say that one component is "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0020] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless explicitly indicated otherwise in the context.

[0021] Throughout this specification, the orientation of the aerosol generator 1 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 1. The y-axis can be defined as the front-back direction of the aerosol generator 1. The z-axis can be defined as the up-down direction of the aerosol generator 1.

[0022] Figures 1 and 2 show an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment may include at least one of a power supply 11, a control unit 12, a sensor 13, and a heater 18. At least one of the power supply 11, control unit 12, sensor 13, and 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 43. The insertion space 43 may be formed by recessing into the body 10 to a predetermined depth so that at least a portion of the stick S can be inserted. The depth of the insertion space 43 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 is inserted into 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.

[0024] 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 may be positioned around the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The heater 18 can heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater 18 may include an electrical resistance heater and / or an induction heater.

[0025] For example, referring to Figure 1, the heater 18 may be a resistive heater. For example, the heater 18 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 18 can be heated by 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 current from the power supply 11.

[0026] For example, referring to Figure 2, the aerosol generator may include an induction coil 181 surrounding a heater 18. The induction coil 181 can cause the heater 18 to heat up. The heater 18 can heat up due to the magnetic field generated by the AC current flowing through the induction coil 181. 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.

[0027] 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 181.

[0028] The power supply 11 can provide power to the components of the aerosol generator to operate. 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 181, the power supply 11 can supply power to the induction coil 181.

[0029] 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 power supply 11 and the sensor 13. The control unit 12 can control the operation of displays, motors, 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 the aerosol generator is operational.

[0030] The control unit 12 can analyze the results sensed by the sensor 13 and control subsequent processes. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 so that the heater 18 starts or stops operating. For example, based on the results sensed by the sensor 13, the control unit 12 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 18 and the duration of power supply so that the heater 18 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0031] Sensor 13 may include at least one of a temperature sensor, a puff sensor, and an insertion sensing sensor. For example, sensor 13 can sense at least one of 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 43.

[0032] Figure 3 shows a stick according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Referring to Figure 3, the stick S may include an aerosol substrate portion 510. The stick S may include a medium portion 520. The aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion 520 can be called a tobacco rod. The stick S may include a cooling portion 530. The stick S may include a filter portion 540. The stick S may include a wrapper 550 surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520, the cooling portion 530 and / or the filter portion 540. In Figure 3, the wrapper 550 may include individual wrappers surrounding the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540, respectively, and / or an outer covering that surrounds the aerosol substrate portion 510, the medium portion 520 and the filter portion 540 as a single unit surrounded by the individual wrappers.

[0034] The aerosol substrate portion 510 may be a portion formed into a predetermined shape by incorporating a humectant into a pulp-based paper. The humectant (substrate) contained in the aerosol substrate portion 510 may include propylene glycol, glycerin, and the like. For example, the humectant in the aerosol substrate portion 510 may include propylene glycol and glycerin in a certain weight ratio with respect to the weight of the base paper. When the stick S is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1 and heated to a certain temperature or higher by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated from the aerosol substrate portion 510.

[0035] The medium section 520 may include one or more of a sheet, a strand, or finely cut tobacco leaves from a tobacco sheet. The medium section 520 may be a part that generates nicotine to provide the user with a smoking experience. When the temperature of the medium contained in the medium section 520 rises above a certain temperature, nicotine vapor can be generated from the medium section 520. When the stick S is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, at least a portion of the aerosol base material section 510 and at least a portion of the medium section 520 can face the heater 18. For example, the downstream side or a portion of the downstream side of the aerosol base material section 510 and the downstream side or a portion of the upstream side of the medium section 520 can face the heater 18.

[0036] The length of the portion of the medium section 520 facing the heater 18 may be longer than the length of the portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 facing the heater 18. The length of the portion of the aerosol substrate section 510 facing the heater 18 may be more than half of the total length of the aerosol substrate section 510. The length of the portion of the medium section 520 facing the heater 18 may be more than half of the total length of the medium section 520.

[0037] The portions of the aerosol substrate 510 and the medium portion 520 facing the heater 18 can be heated by the heater 18. By heating at least a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 containing the humectant by the heater 18, humectant vapor can be generated. By heating at least a portion of the medium portion 520 containing the medium by the heater 18, nicotine vapor can be generated. By arranging the stick S such that the ratio of the lengths of a portion of the aerosol substrate 510 and a portion of the medium portion 520 facing the heater 18 is different, the ratio of the generated humectant vapor to nicotine vapor can be appropriately adjusted.

[0038] In one embodiment, the medium portion 520 does not need to be directly heated by the heater 18 even when the stick S is inserted into the aerosol generator 1. The medium portion 520 can be indirectly heated by conduction, convection, and radiation from the aerosol substrate portion 510 and the medium portion wrapper (or wrapper) surrounding the medium portion 520. The temperature of the medium portion 520 can also be indirectly raised after the aerosol substrate portion 510 has been heated by the heater 18.

[0039] The cooling section 530 can be made of a tube filter containing a predetermined weight of plasticizer. The humectant vapor and nicotine vapor generated from the aerosol substrate section 510 and the medium section 520 can be mixed with each other to form an aerosol, which can then be cooled as it passes through the cooling section 530. In one embodiment, unlike the aerosol substrate section 510, the medium section 520, and the filter section 540, the cooling section 530 does not need to be surrounded by an individual wrapper.

[0040] The filter section 540 may be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, the shape of the filter section 540 is not limited. The filter section 540 may be a cylindrical rod or a tube with a hollow interior. For example, if the filter section 540 is composed of multiple segments, at least one of the segments may be made in a different shape. The filter section 540 may be made to generate flavor. For example, a flavoring liquid may be sprayed onto the filter section 540, or a separate fiber coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted inside the filter section 540.

[0041] Furthermore, the filter section 540 may include at least one capsule. Here, the capsule may also perform the function of generating flavor. For example, the capsule may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is enclosed in a film, and may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0042] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 6 shows the susceptor of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figures 7 and 8 show the bracket of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Referring to Figure 4, the heater 18 may include a heater assembly 30. The heater assembly 30 may be elongated. The heater assembly 30 may be in the shape of a tube or cylinder with a hollow interior. The heater assembly 30 may be located inside the body 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The heater assembly 30 may surround an insertion space 43 (see Figures 1 and 2). The heater assembly 30 may provide the insertion space 43. The heater assembly 30 can heat the insertion space 43 or a stick S inserted into the insertion space 43. The heater assembly 30 may include leads 70 that protrude externally and are electrically connected to the power supply 11.

[0044] The heater 18 may include a pair of brackets 91 and 92. The pair of brackets 91 and 92 can be coupled to the upper and lower ends of the heater assembly 30, respectively. The pair of brackets 91 and 92 can be coupled to the heater assembly 30 to support the heater assembly 30.

[0045] Referring to Figure 5, the heater assembly 30 may include a susceptor 50, an electrically conductive track 60, and a lead 70.

[0046] The susceptor 50 may have a cylindrical shape. The susceptor 50 may be positioned inside the electrically conductive track 60. The susceptor 50 may surround at least a portion of the insertion space 43. The susceptor 50 can be described as a heat transfer element, a heat conduction element, a heat diffusion element, or a pipe. The susceptor 50 may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited to these materials.

[0047] The electrically conductive track 60 may have a cylindrical shape. The electrically conductive track 60 may be positioned outside the susceptor 50. The electrically conductive track 60 may surround at least a portion of the susceptor 50. The electrically conductive track 60 may be formed by laser etching of a thin metal film. The electrically conductive track 60 may generate heat by receiving power from the power supply 11. The electrically conductive track 60 can be considered a heat-generating part. The electrically conductive track 60 may be made of stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or an alloy, but is not limited to these materials.

[0048] An insulator (not shown) may be placed on one side of the electrically conductive track 60. The insulator may be placed inside and / or outside the electrically conductive track 60 and may have a cylindrical shape. The insulator may form at least one layer. The insulator may cover the electrically conductive track 60. In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43, the insulator may extend above and below the electrically conductive track 60.

[0049] The insulator may be formed from a material that is flexible and heat-resistant. The insulator may include, but is not limited to, polyimide or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and may include other materials that are elastic, heat-resistant, and electrically insulating.

[0050] The lead 70 can be connected to the electrically conductive track 60. The lead 70 can extend and protrude from one side of the electrically conductive track 60. The lead 70 can protrude below the insulator that extends below the electrically conductive track 60. The lead 70 can be exposed from the insulator. The lead 70 can be electrically connected to the electrically conductive track 60 and the circuit board 200 (see Figure 11). Features related to the electrically conductive track 60 and the lead 70 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 9 to 13.

[0051] The heater assembly 30 can be coupled with brackets 91 and 92. The first bracket 91 can be attached to or coupled to the upper side of the heater assembly 30 corresponding to the opening of the insertion space 43. The second bracket 92 can be attached to or coupled to the lower side of the heater assembly 30.

[0052] A stick sensing sensor 133 may be positioned on the heater assembly 30. The stick sensing sensor 133 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the stick S. The stick sensing sensor 133 may be positioned to surround at least a portion of the underside of the heater assembly 30. In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43, the stick sensing sensor 133 may be positioned below the susceptor 50 and the electrically conductive track 60. The stick sensing sensor 133 may be positioned to contact a portion of the insulator extending below the electrically conductive track 60 and surround a portion of the outer casing of the insulator. In the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43, the stick sensing sensor 133 may be positioned away from the susceptor 50 and the electrically conductive track 60.

[0053] Therefore, the transfer of heat from the susceptor 50 and the electrically conductive track 60 to the sensor 133 can be minimized. In addition, the accuracy of stick S detection by the sensor 133 can be improved.

[0054] Referring to Figure 6, the susceptor 50 may have a cylindrical shape. The width W1 of the susceptor 50, defined in the longitudinal direction of the insertion space 43, may be 10 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the width W1 of the susceptor 50 may be 12.5 mm to 17.5 mm. The susceptor 50 has a cylindrical shape, and its diameter D1 may be 7 mm to 8 mm. The thickness of the susceptor 50, defined in the radial direction of the insertion space 43, may be 0.01 to 0.03 mm.

[0055] One end 51 of the susceptor 50 may be separated from the other end 52 of the susceptor 50 in the direction of the susceptor 50 or the direction of the insertion space 43. A gap G1 may be formed between the one end 51 and the other end 52 of the susceptor. The width of the gap G1 may be 0.5 mm or less. The wider the gap G1, the larger the area of ​​the stick S that is not heated by the gap G1. Therefore, 0.5 mm may correspond to the maximum width at which the aerosol generated by the stick S exceeds the set minimum amount.

[0056] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the shape of the susceptor 50 from becoming distorted or parts of the susceptor 50 from overlapping during the manufacturing process of the susceptor 50 or during the heating or cooling process of the susceptor 50.

[0057] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the heater assembly 30 can be coupled with brackets 91 and 92. The first bracket 91 can be attached to or coupled to the upper side of the heater assembly 30 corresponding to the opening of the insertion space 43. The first bracket 91 may include a first bracket body 911, a first flange 912, an insertion opening 913, and an alignment groove 914.

[0058] The first bracket body 911 may be cylindrical in shape. The outer diameter D2 of the first bracket body 911 may be the same as or larger than the diameter of the upper end of the heater assembly 30. The first bracket body 911 may extend in the circumferential direction. The first bracket body 911 may be attached to or pressed into the upper end of the heater assembly 30. The first flange 912 may project radially outward from the upper end of the first bracket body 911. The first flange 912 may extend in the circumferential direction. The first flange 912 may surround the upper end of the first bracket body 911. The insertion opening 913 may be formed to penetrate vertically through the central part of the first bracket 91. The boundary between the first flange 912 and the first bracket body 911 may be curved so as to bulge from the inner circumferential surface of the first bracket body 911 to the upper surface of the first flange 912. The alignment groove 914 may be formed by one side of the flange 912 curving radially inward. The alignment groove 914 may have a shape corresponding to a projection provided on the body 10. The alignment groove 914 can be coupled to the projection provided on the body 10. The alignment groove 914 prevents the heater assembly 30 from rotating relative to the body 10 and allows the heater assembly 30 to be stably coupled to the body 10. The first bracket 91 may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or an alloy, but is not limited to these materials.

[0059] The second bracket 92 may be attached to or coupled to the underside of the heater assembly 30. The second bracket 92 may include a second bracket body 921, a second flange 922, and a first hole 924.

[0060] The second bracket body 921 may be cylindrical in shape. The outer diameter of the second bracket body 921 may be the same as or greater than the diameter of the lower end of the heater assembly 30, and the inner diameter D3 of the second bracket body 921 may be smaller than the diameter of the lower end of the heater assembly 30. The second bracket body 921 may extend in the circumferential direction. The second bracket body 921 may be attached to or pressed into the lower end of the heater assembly 30. The second flange 922 may project radially outward from the lower end of the second bracket body 921. The second flange 922 may extend in the circumferential direction. The second flange 922 may surround the lower end of the second bracket body 921. The first hole 924 may be formed to penetrate vertically through the central part of the second bracket 92.

[0061] The first bracket 91 and the second bracket 92 can support the upper and lower ends of the heater assembly 30, respectively. The upper end of the heater assembly 30 can be fixed to or supported by the first bracket 91. The lower end of the heater assembly 30 can be fixed to or supported by the second bracket 92.

[0062] Therefore, the rigidity of the heater assembly 30 can be ensured by stably fixing both ends of the heater assembly 30, including the susceptor 50 and the electrically conductive track 60.

[0063] A second hole 925 may be formed in the second bracket 92, spaced apart from the first hole 924 and passing through the second bracket body 921 and the second flange 922. When the second bracket 92 is coupled to the lower end of the heater assembly 30, the lead 70 can pass through the second hole 925 of the second bracket 92, and one end of the lead 70 can protrude from the lower side of the second bracket 92. The protruding end of the lead 70 can be connected to the power supply 11 or the circuit board 200 via a wire or bridge or the like.

[0064] Figure 9 is a diagram showing the electrically conductive track of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the electrically conductive track shown in section AA of Figure 9.

[0065] Referring to Figure 9, the electrically conductive track 60 may have a cylindrical shape. The electrically conductive track 60 can generate heat by receiving power from the power supply 11. The heat generated in the electrically conductive track 60 can heat the medium and / or humectant of the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43, thereby generating an aerosol. The electrically conductive track 60 can generate heat to a temperature below the set temperature. For example, the electrically conductive track 60 can generate heat to a temperature below 270 degrees.

[0066] When the electrically conductive track 60 is unfolded, it may be a rectangle that extends long in one direction and whose length L2 is greater than its width W2. The length L2 of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 18 mm to 28 mm, and the width W2 of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 10 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length L2 of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 20.5 mm to 25.5 mm, and the width W2 of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 12.5 mm to 17.5 mm. The thickness T2 of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 0.03 mm to 0.05 mm.

[0067] The electrically conductive track 60 may include a heat-generating track 61 and a connecting section 62. The heat-generating track 61 may include at least one track 61a, 61b, or 61c. The first track 61a is located on the outermost edge of the electrically conductive track 60 and may be rectangular in shape overall. The second track 61b may be located inside the first track 61a, and the third track 61c may be located inside the second track 61b.

[0068] The first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c may include at least one bend and may have a winding, folded shape. The number of bends in the first track 61a may be less than the number of bends in the second track 61b. The number of bends in the second track 61b may be less than the number of bends in the third track 61c. The first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c may be separated from each other. The first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c may be connected at one end to each other and at the other end to each other. In other words, the first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c may be connected in parallel to each other.

[0069] The width Wa of the first track 61a may be 0.5 mm to 0.7 mm. The width Wb of the second track 61b may be 0.6 mm to 0.8 mm. The width Wc of the third track 61c may be 0.65 mm to 0.85 mm. The spacing G2 between the second track 61b and the first track 61a or the third track 61c may be 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0070] The width Wa of the first track 61a may be the same as or less than the width Wb of the second track 61b. The width Wb of the second track 61b may be the same as or less than the width Wc of the third track 61c.

[0071] The length of the first track 61a may be the same as or less than the length of the second track 61b. The length of the second track 61b may be the same as or less than the length of the third track 61c.

[0072] The distance G2 between the second track 61b and the first track 61a or the third track 61c may be smaller than the width Wa of the first track 61a, the width Wb of the second track 61b, and the width Wc of the third track 61c.

[0073] Therefore, the electrically conductive track 60 can reduce the resistance deviation between the first track 61a located on the outer casing and the second track 61b and third track 61c located inside, thereby reducing the deviation in the amount of heat generated in each track.

[0074] Furthermore, by making the spacing between tracks relatively smaller than the width of the tracks, the heating surface area of ​​the electrically conductive tracks 60 can be increased, and the electrically conductive tracks 60 can uniformly heat the insertion space 43 or the stick S inserted into the insertion space 43.

[0075] The connecting portion 62 can protrude to the outside from one side of the heating track 61. The connecting portion 62 may be formed integrally with the heating track 61. The connecting portion 62 may be exposed from the insulator covering the electrically conductive track 60. The connecting portion 62 may include a first connecting portion 62a and a second connecting portion 62b. The first connecting portion 62a may be connected to one end of the first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c, and the second connecting portion 62b may be connected to the other end of the first to third tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c.

[0076] The lead 70 can be connected to the electrically conductive track 60. The lead 70 can be connected to the coupling portion 62. The lead 70 can extend in the direction in which the coupling portion 62 protrudes. The lead 70 can electrically connect the electrically conductive track 60 to the power supply 11 or the circuit board 200. The lead 70 may include a first lead 70a that contacts the first coupling portion 62a and a second lead 70b that contacts the second coupling portion 62b. Power can be supplied to the electrically conductive track 60 via the first lead 70a and the second lead 70b. The lead 70 can be attached to the coupling portion 62 by welding. However, the method of attaching the lead 70 to the coupling portion 62 is not limited thereto.

[0077] Referring to Figure 10, the lead 70 may have a plate shape. The lead 70 may have a predetermined thickness and may extend flat in the direction in which the connecting portion 62 extends.

[0078] Even with the same volume and / or length, the heating characteristics may differ depending on the shape of the leads. When the electrically conductive track 60 generates heat, the temperature change of the leads 70 may be smaller if they are flat plates than if they are cylindrical. Therefore, when the heater is operating, heating of parts other than the heater by the leads 70 can be minimized.

[0079] The lead 70 may have a width W3 and a length L3 greater than its thickness T3. The lead 70 can protrude below the second bracket 92 through the second bracket 92 which is coupled to the lower side of the heater assembly 30. The lead 70 can also protrude below the second bracket 92 through the second hole 925 of the second bracket 92.

[0080] The length L3 of the lead 70 may be shorter than the length of each of the heat-generating tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c of the electrically conductive track 60. The width W3 of the lead 70 may be the same as or greater than the widths Wa, Wb, and Wc of each of the heat-generating tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c of the electrically conductive track 60. The thickness T3 of the lead 70 may be greater than the thickness T2 of the heat-generating tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c or the connecting portion 62.

[0081] The ratio of the lengths of the heating tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c to the length L3 of the lead 70 can range from 20:1 to 25:1. The ratio of the widths Wa, Wb, and Wc of the heating tracks 61a, 61b, and 61c to the width W3 of the lead 70 can range from 1:1 to 1:1.3. The ratio of the thickness T2 of the heating track 61a, 61b, and 61c or the connecting part 62 to the thickness T3 of the lead 70 can range from 1:8 to 1:12.

[0082] For example, the length of each heating track 61a, 61b, and 61c is 90 to 110 mm, and the length of the lead 70, L3, can be 4 to 5 mm. The widths Wa, Wb, and Wc of each heating track 61a, 61b, and 61c are 0.5 to 0.9 mm, and the width W3 of the lead 70 can be 0.7 to 0.9 mm. The thickness T2 of the electrically conductive track 60 or each heating track 61a, 61b, and 61c is 0.03 mm to 0.05 mm, and the thickness T3 of the lead 70 can be 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0083] Lead 70 may have a lower resistance than the electrically conductive track 60. Within the temperature range in which the electrically conductive track 60 is heated, lead 70 may have a lower resistance than the electrically conductive track 60.

[0084] The electrically conductive track 60 can generate or be heated to a temperature below a set temperature. For example, the electrically conductive track 60 can generate or be heated to a temperature of 270 degrees or below. By generating or being heated to a temperature of 270 degrees or below, the stick S housed in the insertion space 43 can be extinguished without burning, and an aerosol can be generated.

[0085] At temperatures below 270 degrees Celsius, the ratio of the resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 to the resistance of the lead 70 can range from 90:1 to 110:1. For example, at temperatures below 270 degrees Celsius, the electrically conductive track 60 may have a resistance of 0.9 to 1.4 ohms. At temperatures below 270 degrees Celsius, the lead 70 may have a resistance of 0.008 to 0.012 ohms.

[0086] Because the resistance of the leads is significantly lower than that of the electrically conductive track, the heat generated by the leads can be reduced, thereby increasing the heating efficiency of the heater.

[0087] Furthermore, because the resistance of the leads is significantly lower than that of the electrically conductive track, it is possible to prevent the device from overheating in parts other than the heater.

[0088] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating a circuit for measuring the heater resistance of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 12 is a graph illustrating the change in resistance value due to heating of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 13 is a graph illustrating the change in the resistance ratio of the electrically conductive track and lead due to heating of a heater assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to Figure 11, the resistance measuring sensor 131 may consist of a sensor that detects the resistance value Rh of the heater 18. Here, the resistance value Rh of the heater 18 can be defined as the sum of the resistance value Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 and the resistance value Rl of the lead 70. The resistance measuring sensor can be considered a temperature sensor. The resistance measuring sensor 131 can output a signal corresponding to the resistance value Rh of the heater 18.

[0090] The resistance measuring sensor 131 can be electrically connected to the heater 18. The heater drive circuit 200 can supply power stored in the power supply 11 to the heater 18. The heater drive circuit can be described as a circuit board. The power supplied to the heater 18 via the heater drive circuit 200 can be adjusted by the control of the control unit 12.

[0091] The control unit 12 can control the power supplied to the heater 18 based on the temperature of the heater 18. The control unit 12 can determine the temperature of the heater 18 based on the resistance value Rh of the heater 18, and based on the determined temperature of the heater 18, can control the power supplied to the heater 18 within at least one heating section of the heating profile.

[0092] The circuit board 200 can transmit electrical signals to control the operation of various components. Circuit patterns for transmitting electrical signals can be formed on the circuit board 200. The circuit board 200 can be electrically connected to the power supply 11 and the control unit 12. The control unit 12 can be mounted on the circuit board 200.

[0093] The same level of current can flow through the heater 18 and the resistance measuring sensor 131. The resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor provided in the resistance measuring sensor 131 may be a value that does not change with temperature.

[0094] The control unit 12 can determine the voltage Vc applied to the heater 18 and the resistance measuring sensor 131 based on the power supplied to the heater 18 from the heater drive circuit 200, the current flowing through the heater 18 and the resistance measuring sensor 131, etc. The control unit 12 can calculate the voltage Vd applied to the shunt resistor based on the current flowing through the shunt resistor of the resistance measuring sensor 131 and the resistance value Rs of the shunt resistor. The control unit 12 can calculate the voltage applied to the heater 18 by determining the difference (Vc-Vd) between the voltage Vc applied to the heater 18 and the resistance measuring sensor 131 and the voltage Vd applied to the shunt resistor. The control unit 12 can calculate the resistance value Rh of the heater 18 based on the voltage applied to the heater 18 and the current flowing through the heater 18.

[0095] The heater 18 is made of a material that has a temperature coefficient of resistance, and the resistance value Rh of the heater 18 can change with temperature. The control unit 12 can calculate the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heater 18, the resistance value Rh of the heater 18, and the temperature of the heater 18 corresponding to the resistance value of the heater 18 at a reference temperature, using a calculation formula for the heater 18. Here, the calculation formula for the temperature of the heater 18 may correspond to the following mathematical formula 1.

[0096]

number

[0097] In the above mathematical formula 1, TCR is the temperature coefficient of resistance of the heater 18, T1 is the temperature of the heater 18, R1 is the resistance of the heater 18, T0 is the reference temperature, and R0 can be the resistance of the heater 18 at the reference temperature. Here, T0 is 25 degrees, and R0 can be the resistance of the heater 18 at 25 degrees.

[0098] The resistance value of the heater 18 at the reference temperature may differ for each aerosol generator 1. Taking this into consideration, the memory 17 of the aerosol generator 1 (see Figure 14) can store data such as the resistance value of the heater 18. Based on the data stored in the memory 17, the control unit 12 can determine the resistance value R0 of the heater 18 at the reference temperature T0, which is used in the calculation formula for calculating the temperature of the heater 18.

[0099] In the drawings, a resistance measuring sensor 131 connected in series with the heater 18 is shown as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the resistance measuring sensor 131 can also be embodied by a voltage sensor that senses the voltage applied to the heater 18.

[0100] The resistance value Rh of the heater 18 measured by the resistance measuring sensor 131 may be the sum of the resistance value Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 and the resistance value Rl of the lead 70. When the control unit 12 controls the heating temperature of the heater 18 based on the resistance value Rh of the heater 18, the resistance value Rl of the lead 70 and / or changes in the resistance value Rl may act as noise.

[0101] In one embodiment of the heater assembly 30 of the present disclosure, the lead 70 may include a material having a much lower temperature coefficient of resistance than the electrically conductive track 60.

[0102] Lead 70 may have a temperature coefficient of resistance in the range of 6 to 10 ppm / °C. Preferably, lead 70 may have a temperature coefficient of resistance in the range of 7 to 9 ppm / °C.

[0103] For example, lead 70 may include an alloy containing nickel and copper. Lead 70 may include an alloy with a nickel-to-copper weight ratio of 40:60 to 50:50. Preferably, lead 70 may include an alloy with a nickel weight ratio of 45 and a copper weight ratio of 55. If the nickel weight ratio is less than 40 and the copper weight ratio is greater than 60, the temperature coefficient of resistance of lead 70 may be greater than 10 ppm / °C. If the nickel weight ratio is greater than 50 and the copper weight ratio is less than 50, the temperature coefficient of resistance of lead 70 may be greater than 10 ppm / °C. By including an alloy with a nickel-to-copper weight ratio of 40:60 to 50:50 in lead 70, the temperature coefficient of resistance can be less than 10 ppm / °C.

[0104] Lead 70 may include constantan. Lead 70 can be formed from constantan. As shown in Table 1 below, constantan has a temperature coefficient of resistance of approximately 8 ppm / °C. Constantan has a very low temperature coefficient of resistance compared to electrically conductive materials such as copper and SUS316 used in the electrically conductive track 60. However, the material forming lead 70 is not limited to this and may be other materials having a temperature coefficient of resistance in the range of 6 to 10 ppm / °C, as described above.

[0105] [Table 1]

[0106] The electrically conductive track 60 may include copper or SUS316. The electrically conductive track 60 may have a temperature coefficient of resistance of 500 ppm / °C or higher. If the electrically conductive track 60 has a small temperature coefficient of resistance below a certain level, the change in resistance Rt due to temperature changes of the electrically conductive track 60 is small, so it may not be accurate to calculate or determine the temperature of the electrically conductive track 60 based on its resistance Rt. If the electrically conductive track 60 has a large temperature coefficient of resistance above a certain level, the increase in resistance Rt due to temperature increases of the electrically conductive track 60 is large, so the power required to heat the electrically conductive track 60 increases, which may reduce heating efficiency. The ratio of the temperature coefficients of resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 to the lead 70 may be from 100:1 to 500:1. If the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 is less than 100 times that of the lead 70, the degree to which the resistance value Rl of the lead 70 changes as the heater generates heat may become unnecessarily large. Therefore, the temperature of the heater 18, which is calculated or determined based on the resistance value Rh of the heater 18, may not be accurate.

[0107] If the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 exceeds 500 times that of the lead 70, the degree to which the resistance value Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 changes as the heater generates heat may become unnecessarily large. As a result, the power required to heat the electrically conductive track 60 increases, which may reduce heating efficiency.

[0108] Referring to Figure 12, when power is applied to the heater 18, the electrically conductive track 60 and lead 70 can generate heat or be heated. When the electrically conductive track 60 and lead 70 generate heat or are heated from the first time Ta to the second time Tb, the resistance value Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 can increase from the first value Rt1 to the second value Rt2, and the resistance value Rl of the lead 70 can increase from the third value Rl1 to the fourth value Rl2.

[0109] For example, the electrically conductive track 60 can be heated or exothermic at room temperature or from 25 to 270 degrees Celsius. Here, the change in resistance ΔRT of the electrically conductive track 60 over the same time (Tb-Ta) may be greater than the change in resistance ΔRL of the lead 70. The change in resistance ΔRT of the electrically conductive track 60 can be derived by multiplying the resistance Rt of the electrically conductive track 60, the increased temperature, and the temperature coefficient of resistance. The change in resistance ΔRL of the lead 70 can be derived by multiplying the resistance Rl of the lead 70, the increased temperature, and the temperature coefficient of resistance. Since the resistance Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 is greater than the resistance Rl of the lead 70, and the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 is greater than the temperature coefficient of resistance of the lead 70, the change in resistance ΔRT of the electrically conductive track 60 may be greater than the change in resistance ΔRL of the lead 70.

[0110] Referring to Figure 13, when the electrically conductive track 60 and lead 70 generate heat or are heated from the first time Ta to the second time Tb, the ratio of the resistance Rl of the lead 70 to the resistance Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 (Rl / RT) may decrease. As explained with reference to Figure 12, when the electrically conductive track 60 and lead 70 generate heat or are heated, the resistance Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 increases significantly more than the resistance Rl of the lead 70. Therefore, the ratio of the resistance Rl of the lead 70 to the resistance Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 (Rl / Rt) can decrease.

[0111] The heating temperature of the heater 18 can be controlled when the heater 18 has been heated to a high temperature, or near the set temperature. As the temperature of the heater 18 increases, the ratio of the resistance value Rl of the lead 70 to the resistance value Rt of the electrically conductive track 60 (Rl / RT) decreases, so in the high-temperature range, the temperature of the heater 18 can be accurately calculated or determined based on the resistance value Rh of the heater 18.

[0112] Figure 14 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0113] 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 14. 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 14 or the addition of new components.

[0114] 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.

[0115] Sensor 13 may include at least one of the following: temperature sensor 131, puff sensor 132, insertion sensor 133, reuse sensor 134, motion sensor 137, and humidity sensor 138.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] The temperature sensor 131 is located inside the body 10 and can sense the internal temperature of the body 10.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] 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 gyro sensor.

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] Although not shown in Figure 14, 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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 14, 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 supply.

[0138] 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 14, 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 14, 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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 panel 141 (add-on type).

[0143] On the other hand, the input section 15 may include, but is not limited to, buttons, keypads, dome switches, jog wheels, jog switches, etc.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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 others.

[0147] 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.

[0148] Although not shown in Figure 14, 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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).

[0157] 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.

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] 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.

[0165] 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.

[0166] 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.

[0167] 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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] 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.

[0171] 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.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] As described above, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the temperature of the heater can be accurately determined based on the resistance value of the heater, since the temperature coefficient of resistance of the leads of the resistance-heated heater is much smaller than the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track.

[0179] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the resistance of the leads of a resistance-heated heater is significantly lower than the resistance of the electrically conductive track, thereby reducing the heat generated in the leads and increasing the heating efficiency of the heater.

[0180] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the resistance of the leads of the resistance heating heater is significantly lower than the resistance of the electrically conductive track, thereby preventing the device from being heated in parts other than the heater.

[0181] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, by having a structure in which the heating track arranged on the outer casing of each heating track of the electrically conductive track is long and wide, the heating temperature deviation of each part of the hollow heater can be reduced, and the stick inserted into the heater can be heated uniformly.

[0182] Referring to Figures 1 to 14, an aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a body 10, a hollow heater 18 disposed in the body 10 and having an insertion space 43 with one side open and an electrically conductive track 60 inside, a circuit board 200 disposed in the body 10, and a lead 70 disposed on one side of the heater 18 and connected to the electrically conductive track 60 and the circuit board 200, wherein the temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of the lead 70 may be 6 to 10 ppm / °C.

[0183] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the lead 70 comprises an alloy containing nickel and copper, wherein the weight ratio of nickel to copper may be 40:60 to 50:50.

[0184] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the lead 70 may contain constantan.

[0185] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the electrically conductive track 60 can generate heat to a temperature of 270 degrees or less.

[0186] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 may be 0.9 to 1.4 ohms at temperatures below 270 degrees.

[0187] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the resistance of the lead 70 may be 0.008 to 0.012 ohms at temperatures of 270 degrees or less.

[0188] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, at temperatures below 270 degrees Celsius, the ratio of the resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 to the resistance of the lead 70 may be between 90:1 and 110:1.

[0189] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the ratio of the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track 60 to the temperature coefficient of resistance of the lead 70 may be between 100:1 and 500:1.

[0190] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the lead 70 may have a flat plate shape.

[0191] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the electrically conductive track 60 includes at least one heating track 61a, 61b, 61c, the length of the at least one heating track 61a, 61b, 61c may be longer than the length of the lead 70, and the width of the at least one heating track 61a, 61b, 61c may be smaller than the width of the lead 70.

[0192] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the length of the at least one heating track 61a, 61b, 61c may be 90 to 110 mm and the width may be 0.5 to 0.9 mm.

[0193] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the length of the lead 70 may be 4 to 5 mm and the width may be 0.7 to 0.9 mm.

[0194] Furthermore, according to other aspects of the present disclosure, at least one heating track 61a, 61b, 61c includes a first track 61a disposed on the outer casing of the electrically conductive track 60, a second track 61b disposed inside the first track 61a and having at least one bent portion formed thereon, and a third track 61c disposed inside the second track 61b and having at least one bent portion formed thereon, wherein the width Wb of the second track 61b may be the same as or greater than the width Wa of the first track 61a, and the width Wc of the third track 61c may be the same as or less than the width Wc of the third track 61c.

[0195] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the distance G2 at which the second track 61b separates from the first track 61a or the third track 61c may be smaller than any one of the widths Wa of the first track 61a, Wb of the second track 61b, and Wc of the third track 61c.

[0196] Furthermore, according to other aspects of this disclosure, the electrically conductive track 60 includes a connecting portion 62 which includes a first connecting portion 62a connected to one end of the first to third tracks 61a, 61b, 61c, and a second connecting portion 62b connected to the other end of the first to third tracks 61a, 61b, 61c, and the lead 70 can connect the connecting portion 62 to the circuit board 200.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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.

[0199] 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. The body and, A hollow heater is provided, which is arranged in the body and has an insertion space with one side open, and has an electrically conductive track inside. A circuit board arranged in the body, The heater includes a lead positioned at one end and connected to the electrically conductive track and the circuit board, An aerosol generator having a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of 6 to 10 ppm / °C for the lead.

2. The lead comprises an alloy containing nickel and copper, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the alloy has a weight ratio of nickel to copper of 40:60 to 50:

50.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the lead contains constantan.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive track generates heat to a temperature of 270 degrees or less.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the resistance value of the electrically conductive track is 0.9 to 1.4 ohms at a temperature of 270 degrees or less.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the resistance value of the lead is 0.008 to 0.012 ohms at a temperature of 270 degrees or less.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein at a temperature of 270 degrees or less, the ratio of the resistance value of the electrically conductive track to the resistance value of the lead is 90:1 to 110:

1.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the ratio of the temperature coefficient of resistance of the electrically conductive track to the temperature coefficient of resistance of the lead is 100:1 to 500:

1.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the lead has a flat plate shape.

10. The electrically conductive track includes at least one heat-generating track, The length of at least one of the heating tracks is longer than the length of the lead. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the width of at least one heating track is smaller than the width of the lead.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the length of at least one heating track is 90 to 110 mm and the width is 0.5 to 0.9 mm.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the length of the lead is 4 to 5 mm and the width is 0.7 to 0.9 mm.

13. At least one overheating truck, A first track is positioned on the outer casing of an electrically conductive track, A second track is disposed inside the first track and has at least one bent portion formed therein, The system includes a third track disposed inside the second track and having at least one bent portion formed therein, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the width of the second track is the same as or greater than the width of the first track, and the width of the third track is the same as or less than the width of the third track.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the distance at which the second track separates from the first track or the third track is smaller than any one of the widths of the first track, the second track, and the third track.

15. The electrically conductive track includes a connecting portion which includes a first connecting portion connected to one end of the third track from the first track, and a second connecting portion connected to the other end of the third track from the first track. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the lead connects the connecting portion and the circuit board.

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