Aerosol Generation System

Abstract

An aerosol generating system is provided, the aerosol generating system including an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol, a control device communicatively connected to the aerosol generating device, and a storage device that stores an identifier, the control device, when communicatively connected to the storage device, checks the identifier of the storage device stored in the storage device, and when the identifier of the storage device corresponds to a predetermined condition, transmits a control signal to the aerosol generating device, and when the aerosol generating device receives the control signal from the control device, releases a locked state of the aerosol generating device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating system. [Background technology]

[0002] The aerosol generating device is for extracting a predetermined component from a medium or substance via an aerosol. The medium may contain a substance having a variety of components. The substance contained in the medium may be a flavoring substance having a variety of components. For example, the substance contained in the medium may contain a nicotine component, a herb component, and / or a coffee component. In recent years, much research has been conducted on such aerosol generating devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to solving the above-referenced problems and other problems.

[0004] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating system that can improve the efficiency of gas flow and thereby improve the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick.

[0005] It is still another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating system that can restrict use of the aerosol generating device by unauthorized third parties.

[0006] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating system that can systematically manage the results of user approval of an aerosol generating device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An aerosol generating system according to one aspect of the subject matter described in the present application includes an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol, a control device communicatively connected to the aerosol generating device, and a storage device that stores an identifier, wherein the control device, when communicatively connected to the storage device, checks the identifier of the storage device stored in the storage device, and when the identifier of the storage device satisfies a predetermined condition, transmits a control signal to the aerosol generating device, and when the aerosol generating device receives the control signal from the control device, releases the locked state of the aerosol generating device. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the efficiency of the gas flow can be improved, thereby improving the efficiency of the heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick.

[0009] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to restrict the use of the aerosol generating device by unauthorized third parties.

[0010] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the results of user approval of an aerosol generating device can be systematically managed.

[0011] Further scope of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, such as preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of example only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0012] The above and other objects, features and other characteristics of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20]FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 illustrates an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30] FIG. 29 is an exemplary block diagram of the control device and storage device of FIG. 28. [Diagram 31] 1 is a flowchart of a method of operating an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32] 1 is a flowchart of a method of operating an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. For the sake of simplicity of description with reference to the drawings, the same or similar components are given the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0015] The suffixes "module" and "section" for components used in the following description are for ease of description only and do not have any special meaning or role.

[0016] In this disclosure, those well known to those skilled in the art are omitted for the sake of brevity. It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are for the purpose of making various technical features easily understandable, and that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the present disclosure should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives in addition to those specifically disclosed in the accompanying drawings.

[0017] Terms including ordinal numbers such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but it should be understood that the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only to distinguish one component from another.

[0018] When an element is said to be "connected" to another element, it will be understood that there can be other elements in between, whereas when an element is said to be "directly connected" to another element, it will be understood that there are no other elements in between.

[0019] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device may include at least one of a body 100 , a cartridge 200 , and a cap 300 .

[0021] The body 100 may include at least one of a lower body 110 and an upper body 120. The lower body 110 may house various components required for power supply and control, such as a battery and a control unit, inside. The lower body 110 may form the outer shape of the aerosol generating device. The upper body 120 may be disposed above the lower body 110. The cartridge 200 may be coupled to the upper body 120. The body 100 may be referred to as a main body 100.

[0022] The upper body 120 may include at least one of a mount 130 and a column 140. The mount 130 may be disposed on the upper side of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may provide a space 134 into which a lower portion of the cartridge 200 is inserted. The mount 130 may be open at the top and have a shape that surrounds the space 134 on the inside. The mount 130 may surround the lower portion of the cartridge 200 inserted into the space 134. The mount 130 may be fastened to the cartridge 200. The mount 130 may support the lower portion of the cartridge 200.

[0023] The column 140 may be disposed on the upper side of the lower body 110. The column 140 may have an elongated shape. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. The column 140 may face one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be disposed parallel to the cartridge 200. The column 140 may have a shape that surrounds one side wall of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may support one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0024] The first chamber C1 may be provided on one side of the interior of the first container 210, and the insertion space 214 may be provided on the other side of the interior of the first container 210. The insertion space 214 may be disposed adjacent to the column 140. The column 140 may be disposed adjacent to the other side of the interior of the first container 210 in which the insertion space 214 is formed.

[0025] The cartridge 200 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 200 may provide a space capable of storing liquid therein. The cartridge 200 may include an insertion space 214. One end of the insertion space 214 may be open to form an opening. The insertion space 214 may be exposed to the outside through the opening. The opening may be defined as one end of the insertion space 214.

[0026] The cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 210 and a second container 220. The second container 220 may be coupled to the first container 210.

[0027] The first container 210 may be coupled to an upper side of the second container 220. The first container 210 may provide a space for storing liquid therein. The first container 210 may have an open upper side and may provide an insertion space 214 extending long in the vertical direction. The stick 400 (see FIG. 3) may be inserted into the insertion space 214. One side wall of the first container 210 may face the column 140. The column 140 may surround one side wall of the first container 210. The first container 210 may be disposed above the mount 130.

[0028] The second container 220 may be coupled to the underside of the first container 210. The second container 220 may provide a space in which a wick 261 (see FIG. 2) and a heater 262 (see FIG. 2) are provided. The second container 220 may be inserted into a space 134 provided by the mount 130. The space 134 of the mount 130 may be referred to as a container accommodating space 134. The mount 130 may surround the second container 220. The second container 220 may be coupled to the mount 130.

[0029] The cap 300 may be detachably coupled to the body 100. The cap 300 may cover the cartridge 200. The cap 300 may cover at least a portion of the body 100. The cap 300 may protect at least a portion of the cartridge 200 and / or the body 100 from the outside. A user may separate the cap 300 from the body 100 and replace the cartridge 200.

[0030] The cap 300 can be coupled to the top of the body 100. The cap 300 can be coupled to the top side of the lower body 110. The cap 300 can cover the upper body 120. The cap 300 can cover the cartridge 200. A side wall 301 of the cap 300 can surround a side of the cartridge 200. The side wall 301 of the cap 300 can surround a side of the upper body 120. A top wall 303 of the cap 300 can cover a top of the cartridge 200. The top wall 303 of the cap 300 can cover a top of the column 140.

[0031] The cap 300 may include an insertion hole 304. The insertion hole 304 may be formed in an upper wall 303 of the cap 300. The insertion hole 304 may be formed at a position corresponding to the insertion space 214. The insertion hole 304 may communicate with one end or the upper end of the insertion space 214.

[0032] The cap 300 may include a cap inlet 304a. The cap inlet 304a may be formed on one side of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 304a may be formed on an upper wall 303 of the cap 300. For example, the cap inlet 304a may be formed on a side wall 301 of the cap 300. The cap inlet 304a may be connected to the outside. Air may flow into the inside of the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 304a.

[0033] 1 and 2, the cartridge 200 may be coupled to the body 100. The cartridge 200 may provide a first chamber C1 for storing liquid. The cartridge 200 may provide an insertion space 214 that is partitioned from the first chamber C1. The insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 may include an opening formed by opening one end. The opening may expose the insertion space 214 to the outside.

[0034] The first container 210 may have an outer wall 211 surrounding an internal space. The first container 210 may have an inner wall 212 that divides the space surrounded by the outer wall 211 to define a first chamber C1 on one side and a long insertion space 214 on the other side. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that extends long in the vertical direction. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be formed inside the first container 210. The stick 400 (see FIG. 3) may be inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0035] The second container 220 may be coupled to the first container 210. The second container 220 may include a second chamber C2 communicating with the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be formed inside the second container 220. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the other end or the lower end of the insertion space 214.

[0036] The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side of the cartridge 200. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on an outer wall of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 may be connected to the insertion space 214. The cartridge inlet 224 may be connected to the second chamber C2. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on a side wall 221 of the second container 210.

[0037] The wick 261 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be coupled to the first chamber C1. The wick 261 may receive liquid from the first chamber C1. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261. The heater 262 may be disposed in the second chamber C2. The heater 262 may wrap the wick 261 around itself multiple times. The heater 262 may be electrically coupled to the battery 190 and / or the controller. The heater 262 may be a resistive coil. When the heater 262 generates heat and heats the wick 261, the liquid provided to the wick 261 may atomize to generate an aerosol in the second chamber C2.

[0038] Therefore, the first chamber C1 of the first container 210 in which the liquid is stored is arranged to surround the stick 400 (see FIG. 3) and / or the insertion space 214 in which the stick 400 is inserted, thereby improving the efficiency of the space in which the liquid is stored.

[0039] In addition, since the distance from the stick 400 to the wick 261 and the heater 262 connected to the first chamber C1 is reduced, the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol can be improved.

[0040] A PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly 150 may be provided inside the column 140. At least one of a light source 153 and a sensor 154 may be attached to a PCB 151 of the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 16 ). The PCB assembly 150 may be provided facing a side of the cartridge 200. The light source 153 of the PCB assembly 150 may provide light to the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 of the PCB assembly 150 may sense information about the inside and outside of the cartridge 200. The sensor 154 attached to the PCB assembly 150 may be referred to as a first sensor 154.

[0041] The sensor 180 may be provided on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor 180 may be disposed above the separation wall 112 of the lower body 110. The sensor 180 may detect the flow of air flowing into the cartridge 200. The sensor 180 may be an airflow sensor or a pressure sensor. The sensor 180 may be referred to as a second sensor 180.

[0042] The sensor 180 can be inserted inside the mount 130. The sensor 180 can be positioned toward the side. The sensor 180 can be positioned adjacent to the cartridge inlet 224. The sensor 180 can be positioned toward the cartridge inlet 224.

[0043] The lower body 110 may house a battery 190 therein. The lower body 110 may house various control devices therein. The battery 190 may supply power to various components of the aerosol generating device. The battery 190 may be charged through a charging port 119 formed on one side or the bottom of the lower body 110.

[0044] The separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 can cover the top of the battery 190. The separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 can be disposed below the mount 130 and / or the column 140. The body frame 114 of the lower body 110 can support the sides of the battery 190. The body frame 114 can separate a space that houses the battery 190 from a space that houses a control device.

[0045] 2 and 3, the stick 400 may have an elongated shape. The stick 400 may include a medium therein. The stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0046] The cover 310 can open and close the insertion space 214. The cover 310 can open and close an opening that exposes the insertion space 214 to the outside. The cover 310 can be provided adjacent to the opening of the insertion space 214. The cover 310 can be provided adjacent to one end or an upper end of the insertion space 214. For example, the cover 310 can be provided at the upper end of the first container 210 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 214. For example, the cover 310 can be provided on the cap 300 at a position adjacent to the insertion space 214.

[0047] The cover 310 may be provided to be pivotable. The cover 310 may pivot to open and close the insertion space 214. The cover 310 may pivot toward the inside of the insertion space 214 to open the insertion space 214. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots to open the insertion space 214 may be referred to as a first direction. The cover 310 may pivot toward the outside of the insertion space 214 to close the insertion space 214. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots to close the insertion space 214 may be referred to as a second direction.

[0048] When an end of the stick 400 contacts the cover 310 and pushes the cover 310 out, the cover 310 may pivot in a first direction to open the insertion space 214. The stick 400 may push the cover 310 out and be inserted into the insertion space 214. When the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may pivot in a second direction to close the insertion space 214.

[0049] A spring 312 (see FIG. 9 ) may provide a resilient force to the cover 310 in the second direction. One end of the spring 312 may support the cover 310, and the other end of the spring 312 may support the top end of the first container 210 or the cap 300. The spring 312 may be wound around a pivot axis of the cover 310.

[0050] The cover 310 may be provided around the insertion opening 304 of the cap 300. The cover 310 may be pivotally provided on the cap 300. The cover 310 may be pivotally moved to open and close the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may be pivoted in a first direction to open the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may be pivoted in a second direction to close the insertion opening 304.

[0051] The stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214 by passing through the insertion opening 304 of the cap 300. When one end of the stick 400 contacts the cover 310 and pushes out the cover 310, the cover 310 may pivot in a first direction to open the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304. The stick 400 may be inserted into the insertion space 214 by pushing out the cover 310 and passing through the insertion opening 304. When the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may pivot in a second direction to close the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304.

[0052] When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, one end of the stick 400 is exposed to the outside of the cap 300, and the other end of the stick 400 may be disposed adjacent to and above the second chamber C2. A user may inhale air by holding the exposed end of the stick 400 in their mouth.

[0053] Air can flow into the inside of the aerosol generating device through the cap inlet 304a. The air flowing in from the cap inlet 304a can flow into the cartridge inlet 224. The air can flow into the inside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224. The air that has passed through the cartridge inlet 224 can flow into the second chamber C2 and flow toward the insertion space 214. The air can pass through the stick 400 along with the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

[0054] Therefore, by inserting the stick 400 into the insertion space 214 , the cover 310 can be pivoted, thereby opening the insertion space 214 .

[0055] Furthermore, when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, the cover 310 pivots at the same time, so that the insertion space 214 can be automatically closed.

[0056] Moreover, the inside of the insertion space 214 can be protected from external foreign matter.

[0057] 4 to 6, the cartridge 200 may be detachably coupled to the upper body 120. The upper body 120 may be disposed above the lower body 110. The upper body 120 may include at least one of a mount 130 and a column 140.

[0058] The mount 130 may provide a space 134 that is open at the top. An inner surface 131 and a bottom 133 of the mount 130 may surround at least a portion of the space 134. An inner surface 141 of the column 140 may surround one side of the space 134. The second container 220 may be inserted into the space 134 provided by the mount 130. The mount 130 may surround the second container 220 inserted into the space 134.

[0059] The cartridge 200 may be coupled to the mount 130 in a snap-fit ​​manner. The second container 220 may be coupled to the mount 130 in a snap-fit ​​manner. The second container 220 may be detachably fastened to the mount 130. When the second container 220 is inserted into the space 134 of the mount 130, a recess 221a formed in the second container 220 may be fastened to a protrusion 131a formed in the mount 130.

[0060] The recessed portion 221a may be formed to be recessed inward from the side wall 221 of the second container 220. The recessed portion 221a may have a plurality of recesses and may be formed on one side and the other side of the side wall 221 of the second container 220. The protrusion 131a may protrude from the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. The protrusion 131a may have a plurality of protrusions and may be formed on one side and the other side of the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. The protrusion 131a may be formed at a position corresponding to the recessed portion 221a.

[0061] When the second container 220 is coupled to the mount 130, the first container 210 may be disposed above the mount 130. The first container 210 may have a shape that protrudes laterally beyond the second container 220. The second container 220 is inserted into the space 134 surrounded by the mount 130, and the first container 210 may cover the top of the mount 130.

[0062] The mount 130 may support the bottom of the cartridge 200. The mount 130 may support the sides and bottom of the second container 220. The mount 130 may support the lower edge of the first container 210.

[0063] The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. The column 140 may surround one side of the space 134 of the mount 130. An inner surface 141 of the column 140 may be integrally formed and extend from the inner surface 131 of the mount 130. An outer surface 142 of the column 140 may be integrally formed and extend from the outer surface 132 of the mount 130.

[0064] The column 140 may extend to a height corresponding to the cartridge 200. The upper wall 143 of the column 140 may be formed to a height corresponding to the upper end of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be formed parallel to the cartridge 200.

[0065] The insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 may be formed adjacent to one side wall of the cartridge 200. The insertion space 214 may be formed adjacent to the column 140. The column 140 may surround the one side wall of the cartridge 200 in which the insertion space 214 is formed. The one side wall of the cartridge 200 may be inserted into the mount 130 by sliding onto an inner surface 141 of the column 140. The column 140 may support the one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0066] A window 170 for protecting the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 3 ) may be disposed to cover the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The window 170 may be disposed between the cartridge 200 and the column 140. The window 170 may extend in the vertical direction along the column 140. The window 170 may surround one side wall of the cartridge 200 in which the insertion space 214 is formed. The window 170 may support one side wall of the cartridge 200.

[0067] Thus, the cartridge 200 can be releasably coupled to the body 100 .

[0068] In addition, the cartridge 200 can be stably supported by being coupled to the body 100 .

[0069] The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may protrude outward from the upper body 120. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may extend along the periphery of the upper body 120. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may be disposed below the upper body 120. When the cap 300 is coupled to the body 100, the lower end of the side wall 301 of the cap 300 may contact the upper edge 113 of the lower body 110. The upper edge 113 of the lower body 110 may restrict the cap 300 from moving below the upper body 120.

[0070] 7 and 8, the cartridge 200 may include a cover groove 215. The cover groove 215 may be located adjacent to an opening of the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed from the insertion space 214 in a direction in which the periphery of the insertion space 214 expands. The cover groove 215 may be recessed outward from the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed in a radially outward direction from the insertion space 214. The cover groove 215 may be recessed from the insertion space 214 toward the first chamber C1. The cover groove 215 may provide a space in which the cover 310 may be positioned.

[0071] The cover groove 215 may be formed around one end or an upper end of the insertion space 214 in the first container 210. The cover groove 215 may be formed such that a periphery of one end of the insertion space 214 is recessed outward. The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 while opening the opening of the insertion space 214. The cover 310 may be received in the cover groove 215 while pivoting in a first direction to open the opening of the insertion space 214.

[0072] The cover groove 215 may be formed such that one end or an upper end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is recessed from the insertion space 214 in an outward direction. The cover groove 215 may be formed such that the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is recessed from the insertion space 214 toward the first chamber C1. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may define the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround at least a portion of the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may contact a bottom of the cover groove 215. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround a portion of a side of the cover groove 215.

[0073] The cartridge 200 may include a first guide 216 formed adjacent to an upper portion of the insertion space 214 and inclined downward from the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be formed on an upper end portion of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The first guide 216 may be referred to as a first stick guide 216.

[0074] The first guide 216 may contact the bottom of the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed on the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 at a position in contact with the bottom of the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed between the bottom of the cover groove 215 and the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be disposed below the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be formed inclined from the bottom of the cover groove 215 toward the underside of the insertion space 214.

[0075] The first guide 216 may extend circumferentially along at least a portion of the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may extend circumferentially along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The first guide 216 may contact an end of the stick 400 (see FIG. 3 ) and guide the stick 400 as it is inserted into the insertion space 214.

[0076] 8, the cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 210, a second container 220, a sealing member 250, a wick 261, and a heater 262. The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240.

[0077] The first container 210 may provide a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 214. An inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may divide a space surrounded by an outer wall 211 of the first container 210, thereby dividing the first chamber C1 on one side and the insertion space 214 on the other side.

[0078] The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround the sides of the first chamber C1. The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be connected to each other to have a shape that extends to surround the periphery of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 213 of the first container 210 may cover an upper portion of the first chamber C1. The upper wall 213 of the first container 210 may be connected to the outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0079] The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may surround the sides of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that extends elongated in the vertical direction. The insertion space 214 may have a shape that corresponds to the circumference of the stick 400 (FIG. 3). The insertion space 214 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The outer wall 211 and the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may be connected to each other to have a shape that extends in the circumferential direction so as to surround the circumference of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may be open at the top and bottom.

[0080] The second container 220 may provide a second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be disposed below the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be in communication with the insertion space 214.

[0081] The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240. The lower case 230 may form the outer shape of the second container 220. The lower case 230 may be coupled to an outer wall 211 or a periphery of the first container 210. The lower case 230 may provide an accommodation space therein. The lower case 230 may support the frame 240. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in a side wall of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the lower case 230.

[0082] Therefore, leakage of liquid from the second chamber C2 to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224 can be prevented.

[0083] The lower case 230 may include at least one of a receiving portion 231 and an extension portion 232. The receiving portion 231 may provide an accommodating space therein. The receiving portion 231 may surround the accommodating space. The receiving portion 231 may accommodate at least a portion of the frame 240 therein. A side wall of the receiving portion 231 may be the side wall 221 (see FIG. 4 ) of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in the side wall of the receiving portion 231. The extension portion 232 may extend outward from an upper end of one side of the receiving portion 231. The extension portion 232 may support a portion of the frame 240. The receiving portion 231 may be referred to as a case portion 231.

[0084] The frame 240 may be disposed inside the lower case 230. The frame 240 may define a second chamber C2. The frame 240 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The lower case 230 may surround the remainder of the second chamber C2. The frame 240 may form a bottom of the first chamber C1.

[0085] The frame 240 may include at least one of a first frame portion 241 and a second frame portion 242. The first frame portion 241 may form a bottom of the first chamber C1. The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by an outer wall 211, an inner wall 212, an upper wall 213, and the first frame portion 241 of the first container 210. The first frame portion 241 may be referred to as a first frame 241. The second frame portion 242 may be referred to as a second frame 242.

[0086] The frame 240 may include at least one of a first frame portion 241 and a second frame portion 242. The first frame portion 241 may form a bottom of the first chamber C1. The first chamber C1 may be surrounded by an outer wall 211, an inner wall 212, an upper wall 213, and the first frame portion 241 of the first container 210.

[0087] The second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may partition the second chamber C2. A sidewall of the second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of a side of the second chamber C2. A bottom of the second frame portion 242 may form the bottom of the second chamber C2. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed in a sidewall of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be in communication with the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may be disposed adjacent to a lower side of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2.

[0088] The first frame portion 241 and the second frame portion 242 may be connected to each other. The first frame portion 241 may extend from the second frame portion 242 to cover the bottom of the first chamber C1.

[0089] The accommodating portion 231 may accommodate the second frame portion 242 therein. The accommodating portion 231 may support a bottom of the second frame portion 242. The accommodating portion 231 may define a second chamber C2 together with the second frame portion 242. The extension portion 232 may support the first frame portion 241. The second frame portion 242 may be disposed inside the accommodating portion 231, and the first frame portion 241 may be disposed above the extension portion 232.

[0090] The connecting channel 2314 may be formed inside the receiving part 231. The frame 240 may define the connecting channel 2314 inside the lower case 230. The connecting channel 2314 may be formed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424, and may connect the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The first frame part 241 may cover an upper part of the connecting channel 2314. The second frame part 242 may cover a side part of the connecting channel 2314.

[0091] The blocking wall 2317 may be formed in the connecting flow passage 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may have a long extending shape. The blocking wall 2317 may extend upward from the bottom of the lower case 230 or the bottom of the frame 240. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the cartridge inlet 224. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the chamber inlet 2424.

[0092] Therefore, the liquid in the second chamber C2 can be prevented from passing through the cartridge inlet 224 and leaking to the outside of the cartridge 200.

[0093] The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may surround and adhere to an edge of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the sealing member 250 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The sealing member 250 may prevent liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from leaking from the first chamber C1 through gaps between components.

[0094] The sealing member 250 may include at least one of a first sealing portion 251 and a second sealing portion 252. The first sealing portion 251 may extend along the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may surround an edge of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may be in close contact between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the frame 240. The first sealing portion 251 may be in close contact between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the first frame portion 241.

[0095] Therefore, the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can be prevented from leaking through the gap between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the frame 240.

[0096] The second sealing portion 252 may extend from the first sealing portion 251 along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may surround and be in close contact with an edge of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may be in close contact between the inner wall of the first container 210 and the frame 240. The second sealing portion 252 may be in close contact between the inner wall of the first container 210 and the second frame portion 242. The second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the frame 240. The second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the second frame portion 242. A lower end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may press the second sealing portion 252 toward the frame 240.

[0097] Therefore, the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 can be prevented from leaking through the gap between the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and the frame 240.

[0098] The mount 130 may include a sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may provide a space formed at the bottom of one side wall of the mount 130. The second sensor 180 may be received inside the sensor receiving portion 137. The lower case 230 may cover the sensor receiving portion 137. The lower case 230 may surround one side of the sensor receiving portion 137. One side wall of the receiving portion 231 of the lower case 230 may face a side of the sensor receiving portion 137. The extension portion 232 of the lower case 230 may cover an upper portion of the sensor receiving portion 137.

[0099] A gap through which air can flow may be formed between the sensor receiving part 137 and the lower case 230. Air may pass between the sensor receiving part 137 and the lower case 230 and flow into the cartridge inlet 224. The second sensor 180 may sense the flow of air passing between the sensor receiving part 137 and the lower case 230 and flowing into the cartridge inlet 224.

[0100] 8 and 9, the cartridge 200 may include a stick stopper 217 protruding inward from the periphery of the insertion space 214 at a position adjacent to the other end or the lower end of the insertion space 214. The stick stopper 217 may protrude in a radially inward direction. The stick stopper 217 may be formed on the outer wall 211 and / or the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0101] The stick stopper 217 may include a plurality of stick stoppers. The stick stopper 217 may include three stick stoppers. A plurality of stick stoppers 217 may be arranged along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The stick stoppers 217 may be arranged in the circumferential direction. The stick stoppers 217 may be arranged spaced apart from each other. The stick stopper 217 may have a rib shape or a ring shape extending in the circumferential direction along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The stick 400 may hang around the periphery of the stick stopper 217. The stick stopper 217 may have a shape that gradually widens toward the upper side.

[0102] Thus, when the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, the stick stopper 217 can contact the end of the stick 400 and thereby restrict the stick 400 from moving beyond the insertion space 214 into the second chamber C2.

[0103] In addition, the reduction in the amount of air flowing from the second chamber C2 into the insertion space 214 can be minimized.

[0104] Furthermore, the stick stopper 217 does not prevent the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2 from extracting certain components from the medium of the stick 400.

[0105] 10 and 11, the pivot axis or shaft 311 of the cover 310 may be disposed above the insertion space 214. The pivot axis or shaft 311 of the cover 310 may be disposed between the insertion space 214 and the insertion opening 304. The cover 310 may pivot toward the inside of the insertion space 214 to open the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots toward the inside of the insertion space 214 may be defined as a first direction.

[0106] When the cover 310 pivots in the first direction to open the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be accommodated in the cover groove 215. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be accommodated in the cover groove 215 and may overlap the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 located below the cover groove 215. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the cover 310 may be arranged parallel to the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 located below the cover groove 215.

[0107] The first guide 216 may be formed to be inclined from the bottom of the cover groove 215 toward the lower side of the insertion space 214. The first guide 216 may be formed to be inclined such that the insertion space 214 becomes gradually narrower as it goes downward. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the first guide 216 may be disposed adjacent to one end of the cover 310 on the lower side of the cover 310. When the cover 310 opens the insertion space 214, the first guide 216 may protrude into the insertion space 214 beyond the end of the cover 310.

[0108] The cover 310 may pivot toward the outside of the insertion space 214 to close the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304. The direction in which the cover 310 pivots toward the outside of the insertion space 214 may be defined as a second direction. One end of the spring 312 may support the cover 310, and the other end of the spring 312 may support the cap 300. The spring 312 may provide an elastic force to the cover 310 in a direction in which the cover 310 closes the insertion space 214. The cover 310 may pivot in the second direction via the spring 312.

[0109] The second guide 306 may be formed at an incline such that the inner space gradually narrows toward the lower side. The second guide 306 may be disposed adjacent to the pivot radius of the cover 310. The second guide 306 may be disposed outside the pivot radius of the cover 310. The second guide 306 may extend at an incline along the pivot radius of the cover 310.

[0110] One end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the insertion opening 304. One end of the second guide 306 may be disposed outside the insertion opening 304. One end of the second guide 306 may be disposed below the insertion opening wall 305. The insertion opening wall 305 may protrude inward beyond the one end of the second guide 306. When the cover 310 pivots in the second direction to close the insertion space 214, the cover 310 can contact the insertion opening wall 305 to limit the movement of the cover 310.

[0111] The other end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the insertion space 214. The other end of the second guide 306 may be located adjacent to the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that defines the periphery of the insertion space 214. The other end of the second guide 306 may be disposed on the upper side of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that defines the insertion space 214. The second guide 306 may have a shape that extends obliquely from one end of the second guide 306 to the other end.

[0112] 12 to 15, the stick 400 can push the cover 310 inward or in a first direction of the insertion space 214. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 while pushing out the cover 310, the cover 310 can open the insertion space 214 and / or the insertion opening 304.

[0113] 12 and 13, when the end of the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the end of the stick 400 can contact the insertion opening wall 305. When the end of the stick 400 contacts the insertion opening wall 305, the insertion opening wall 305 can guide the stick 400 to a fixed position within the insertion opening 304. When the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the end of the stick 400 can push out the cover 310, causing the cover 310 to pivot in a first direction.

[0114] 13 and 14, when the stick 400 passes through the insertion opening 304, the cover 310 can be inserted into the cover groove 215. The cover 310 overlaps the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and can form one side wall of the insertion space 214 together with the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0115] 14 and 15, the stick 400 can be inserted into the insertion space 214 by sliding along the surface of the cover 310. The second guide 306 can be disposed at a position facing the pivot axis of the cover 310, centered on the insertion opening 304. The second guide 306 can be disposed at a position facing the cover groove 215. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, an end of the stick 400 can come into contact with the second guide 306. When the end of the stick 400 comes into contact with the second guide 306, the second guide 306 can guide the stick 400 to a fixed position in the insertion space 214.

[0116] The first guide 216 may be disposed at a position opposite to the second guide 306. The first guide 216 may be disposed below the second guide 216. The first guide 216 may be disposed below the cover groove 215. The first guide 216 may be disposed below the cover 310. The first guide 216 may extend in a circumferential direction along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. When the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214, the end of the stick 400 may contact the first guide 216. The end of the stick 400 may first contact the second guide 306 to be guided to a position, and then contact the first guide 216. When the end of the stick 400 contacts the first guide 216, the first guide 216 may guide the stick 400 to a fixed position in the insertion space 214.

[0117] When inserted into the insertion space 214, the end of the stick 400 can come into contact with the stick stopper 217. The stick stopper 217 can contact the end of the stick 400 to restrict the stick 400 from moving downward in the insertion space 214 or into the second chamber C2.

[0118] Therefore, when a user pushes out the cover 310 using the stick 400, the stick 400 can smoothly pass through the insertion opening 304 and be guided to a correct position so as to push out the cover 310.

[0119] In addition, even if the stick 400 pushes out the cover 310 and the cover 310 is positioned inside the insertion space 214, the cover 310 is accommodated in the cover groove 215, so that the stick 400 can adhere closely to the wall that defines the insertion space 214.

[0120] In addition, since the stick 400 is in close contact with the wall partitioning the insertion space 214, unnecessary air flow between the insertion space 214 and the stick 400 is prevented when the user inhales air through the stick 400, thereby reducing wasted suction force and preventing a decrease in the efficiency of air flow.

[0121] In addition, when the user pushes out the cover 310 through the stick 400, the cover 310 can guide the stick 400 to be accurately inserted into the insertion space 214 even if an external force is applied to the end of the stick 400 in the second direction.

[0122] In addition, the stick 400 can be restricted from moving inside the second chamber C2.

[0123] 16 , the upper body 120 may be coupled to an upper portion of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may cover an upper portion of the lower body 110. A lower portion of the mount 130 may be surrounded by an upper portion of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may be coupled to an upper portion of the lower body 110. The mount 130 may be coupled to the lower body 110 in a snap-fit ​​manner. The mount 130 may be inseparably fastened to the lower body 110.

[0124] The second sensor 180 may be disposed on one side of the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor support portion 185 may have a shape extending upward from the upper portion of the lower body 110. The sensor support portion 185 may support the second sensor 180. The second sensor 180 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 185. The second sensor 180 may be coupled to the sensor support portion 185 and disposed to face in a lateral direction. The sensor accommodating portion 137 of the mount 130 may accommodate and cover the second sensor 180 and the sensor support portion 185.

[0125] 17 to 19, the fastening hole 135 may be formed in the lower part of the mount 130. The fastening hole 135 may be formed in a side part of the lower part of the mount 130. The fastening hole 135 may include a plurality of fastening holes and may be arranged along the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130. The body latch 115 disposed in the upper part of the lower body 110 may be inserted into the fastening hole 135 to fasten the mount 130 and the lower body 110 together (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0126] The rib groove 136 may be formed on the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The rib groove 136 may have a shape recessed inward from the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The rib groove 136 may have a shape extending along the periphery of the outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The body rib 116 extending along the inner periphery of the upper part of the lower body 110 may be inserted into the rib groove 136 to fasten the mount 130 and the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the body rib 116 may be made of a material such as rubber or silicone. The body rib 116 is in close contact with the rib groove 136 to stably fix the position of the mount 130 to the lower body 110 and prevent the upper body 120 from shaking relative to the lower body 110 (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0127] The first fixing portion 138 may be formed on the lower part of the mount 130. The first fixing portion 138 may be recessed upward from the lower part of the mount 130 or may be protruded downward. The first fixing portion 138 may be formed around the lower part of the mount 130. The first fixing portion 138 may include a plurality of first fixing portions arranged along the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130. The second fixing portion 118 disposed on the upper part of the lower body 110 is coupled to the first fixing portion 138 to stably fix the position of the mount 130 to the lower body 110 and prevent the upper body 120 from shaking relative to the lower body 110 (see FIGS. 21 and 22).

[0128] The upper body 120 may include a column 140 extending upward. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130. Side walls 141, 142 of the column 140 may be connected to the side walls 131, 132 of the mount 130. The column 140 may surround a portion of the space 134 provided by the mount 130. An inner surface 141 of the column 140 may have a recessed shape that is recessed outward. The column 140 may face a side of the cartridge 200 (see FIG. 6 ). The column 140 may surround one side of the cartridge 200. The column 140 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

[0129] The column 140 may accommodate the PCB assembly 150. The PCB assembly 150 may provide light to the cartridge 200 or sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the information about the cartridge 200 may be at least one of information about a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about whether the stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the extent to which the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is usable, information about whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information about the type of the coupled cartridge 200. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to those described above. The column 140 may accommodate a light source 153 that provides light. The column 140 may house a first sensor 154 that senses information about the cartridge 200 .

[0130] The column 140 may provide an installation space 144 therein. The installation space 144 may have a shape extending up and down along the column 140. The inner surface 141 of the column 140 may surround the installation space 144. The installation space 144 may be open toward the space 134 of the mount 130. The installation space 144 may be open toward one side of the cartridge 200.

[0131] The PCB assembly 150 may be provided in the installation space 144. The plate 160 may cover the PCB assembly 150 and be disposed in the installation space 144. The window 170 may cover the PCB assembly 150 and the installation space 144. The PCB assembly 150, the plate 160, and the window 170 may be stacked in sequence. The installation space 144 may be referred to as an assembly receiving space 144.

[0132] The PCB assembly 150 may include at least one of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) 151, a light source 153, and a first sensor 154. The light source 153 may be mounted on the PCB 151. The light source 153 may include at least one light source. The first sensor 154 may be mounted on the PCB. The light source 153 and the first sensor 154 may be mounted at different positions on a single PCB. The first sensor 154 may be mounted in an area avoiding the at least one light source 153.

[0133] The PCB assembly 150 may be disposed inside the column 140 facing the cartridge 200. The PCB assembly 150 may face a first container 210 having a first chamber C1 and an insertion space 214. The PCB assembly 150 may extend vertically along the column 140. A connector 152 for electrical connection may be formed at one end of the PCB assembly 150.

[0134] The PCB 151 may extend vertically along the column 140. The PCB 151 may be a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB). The connector 152 may be formed at one end of the PCB 151. A plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged on the PCB 151. The first sensor 154 may be located at the center of the PCB 151. At least one light source 153 may be arranged on each side of the first sensor 154. A plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged vertically along the PCB 151. A plurality of light sources 153 may be arranged along the longitudinal direction of the column 140. The first sensor 154 may be arranged to face the insertion space 214. The light source 153 may be arranged to face the outside of the insertion space 214. The light source 153 may emit light to the outside of the insertion space 214 and provide light to the first chamber C1. The light source 153 may be a light emitting diode (LED).

[0135] Therefore, the light source 153 can provide light uniformly to the first chamber C1.

[0136] In addition, the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 can be prevented from blocking the path of the light provided by the light source 153 .

[0137] The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the PCB 151. The first sensor 154 may extend vertically along the first container 210 or the insertion space 214. The first sensor 154 may face the insertion space 214. The first sensor 154 may sense information about the cartridge 200. For example, the first sensor 154 may sense at least one of information about a change in the remaining amount of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of liquid stored in the first chamber C1 of the cartridge 200, information about whether the stick 400 has been inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the type of the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200, information about the extent to which the stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been used or is usable, information about whether the cartridge 200 inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 has been coupled to the body 100, and information about the type of the coupled cartridge 200. The information about the cartridge 200 is not limited to this.

[0138] The first sensor 154 may sense information about the cartridge 200 by sensing a change in the electromagnetic characteristics of the cartridge 200. The first sensor 154 may sense a change in the electromagnetic characteristics caused by an adjacent object. For example, the first sensor 154 may be a capacitance sensor. For example, the first sensor 154 may be a magnetic proximity sensor. The type of the first sensor 154 is not limited thereto. For example, when the stick 400 is inserted into the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 or the volume of the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 changes, a change occurs in the electromagnetic characteristics sensed by the first sensor 154, and the first sensor 154 may measure this to sense information about the cartridge 200.

[0139] The first sensor 154 may include a conductor. The conductor may be formed to have a length corresponding to the insertion space 214 in a direction in which the insertion space 214 of the cartridge 200 extends. For example, the conductor may be formed to have a maximum length adjacent to the upper and lower sides of the PCB 151 in the longitudinal direction of the column 140.

[0140] The first sensor 154 may generate and output a signal. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal while a current flows through a conductor. The first sensor 154 may generate a signal corresponding to an electromagnetic characteristic of the surroundings, for example, a capacitance around the conductor.

[0141] The window 170 may be coupled to the column 140. The window 170 may be formed of a transparent material. The window 170 may transmit light. The window 170 may be coupled to the column 140 to cover the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 19). The window 170 may have a shape that extends up and down along the column 140. The window 170 may be disposed between the column 140 and the cartridge 200. The window 170 may be disposed adjacent to the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The window 170 may surround one side of the cartridge 200. The window 170 may face a side of the cartridge 200. The window 170 may be formed thin so that the PCB assembly 150 is adjacent to the cartridge 200.

[0142] One surface 171a of the window 170 can contact the side of the cartridge 200 to support the cartridge 200 (see FIGS. 4 to 6). The other surface 171b of the window 170 can be in close contact with the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 27). The one surface 171a of the window 170 can be referred to as the front surface of the window 170. The other surface 171b of the window 170 can be referred to as the rear surface of the window 170.

[0143] The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a shape corresponding to the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that constitutes the periphery of the insertion space 214. The insertion space 214 may be located adjacent to the column 140 and the PCB assembly 150 (see FIG. 8). The insertion space 214 may be located between the first chamber C1 and the column 140. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that surrounds the periphery of the insertion space 214 may have a shape that extends round along the periphery of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a round shape so as to surround the outside of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a round shape so as to surround the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 that constitutes the periphery of the insertion space 214. The one surface 171a of the window 170 may have a shape that is concave toward the direction facing the cartridge 200. One surface 171 a of the window 170 can support one side wall of the cartridge 200 .

[0144] At least one groove 174 for accommodating the light source 153 may be formed on the other surface 171b of the window 170. The groove 174 may be referred to as a light source groove 174 or a window groove 174. The light source groove 174 may be formed to be recessed from the other surface 171b of the window 170 toward one surface. Each of the light source grooves 174 may accommodate and cover each of the light sources 153. Each of the light source grooves 174 may be formed at a position corresponding to the position of each of the light sources 153. The light source grooves 174 may be arranged vertically. At least one of the light source grooves 174 may be formed on each side of the first sensor 154.

[0145] The other surface 171b of the window 170 may include a flatly formed planar portion 172. The planar portion 172 may be in close contact with the PCB assembly 150. The planar portion 172 may be inserted into the installation space 144 (see FIG. 17) of the column 140. The light source groove 174 may be formed such that the planar portion 172 is recessed.

[0146] The PCB assembly 150 may include a plurality of through holes 151a. The through holes 151a may be formed on one side of the PCB 151. The through holes 151a may be formed on an upper side of the PCB 151. The through holes 151a may be formed above the light source 153 and / or the first sensor 154. The through holes 151a may be formed on both sides of the PCB 151.

[0147] The window 170 may include a plurality of through protrusions 172a. The through protrusions 172a may be protruded from another surface 171b of the window 170. The through protrusions 172a may be formed at positions corresponding to the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may protrude toward the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may penetrate the through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may include a plurality of through protrusions. Each of the plurality of through protrusions 172a may penetrate each of the plurality of through holes 151a. The through protrusions 172a may penetrate the through holes 151a, so that the PCB assembly 150 and the window 170 may be placed in a fixed position.

[0148] The window 170 may include a locking protrusion 173. The locking protrusion 173 may be formed on the other surface 171b of the window 170. The locking protrusions 173 may protrude from both sides of the flat portion 172. The locking protrusions 173 may include a plurality of locking protrusions arranged in the vertical direction. Each of the plurality of locking protrusions 173 may have a shape that is elongated in the vertical direction corresponding to the flange side portion 1451.

[0149] The column 140 may include a flange 145. The flange 145 may be disposed on the inside of the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The flange 145 may protrude inward from the inner surface 141 of the column 140. The flange 145 may be formed integrally with the column 140. The flange 145 may protrude inwardly from the column 140 to form an edge. The flange 145 may extend along the periphery of the assembly accommodating space 144. The flange 145 may be open in the center, through which the assembly accommodating space 144 and the container accommodating space 134 may be connected to each other.

[0150] The flange 145 may include at least one of a flange side portion 1451, a flange lower portion 1452, and a flange upper portion 1453. The flange 145 may be formed by connecting the flange side portion 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453. The flange side portion 1451 may have a shape extending elongated along the longitudinal direction of the column 140. The flange side portion 1451 may be formed spaced apart from each other on both sides of the column 140. The flange lower portion 1452 and the flange upper portion 1453 may be connected between the pair of flange side portions 1451. The flange side portion 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453 may be connected to each other to form the periphery of the flange 145. The area surrounded by the flange side portion 1451, the flange lower portion 1452, and the flange upper portion 1453 may be opened, so that the assembly accommodation space 144 and the container accommodation space 134 can communicate with each other.

[0151] The other surface 171b of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145. An edge of the other surface of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145. The other surface 171b of the window 170 may be attached to the flange 145 via an adhesive member. For example, the adhesive member may be a tape or a bond. The adhesive member is not limited to those described above. The locking protrusion 173 may be engaged with the flange 145 to fasten the window 170 and the flange 145. The locking protrusion 173 may be engaged with the flange side portion 1451. The flange 145 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the other surface 171b of the window 170 adjacent to the edge of the window 170. The flange lower portion 1452 and the flange upper portion 1453 may have a concave shape.

[0152] Therefore, the PCB assembly 150 can be protected from the outside and prevented from coming off.

[0153] Also, light emitted from the PCB assembly 150 can be provided to the cartridge 200 .

[0154] Also, the window 170, the cartridge 200 and the PCB assembly 150 can be stably coupled or fixed.

[0155] The plate 160 may cover an area of ​​the PCB assembly 150 that avoids the at least one light source 153. The plate 160 may be attached to the PCB assembly 150 and cover the first sensor 154. The plate 160 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves. The plate 160 may be transparent to electromagnetic waves but may not be transparent to visible light or may be semi-transparent.

[0156] A printed circuit connected to the light source 153 may be printed on the PCB 151 around the light source 153. The plate 160 may cover the printed circuit printed on the PCB 151 around the light source 153. The plate 160 may have a shape that extends vertically along the first sensor 154 and may have a shape that extends from the first sensor 154 in the direction in which the printed circuit is printed.

[0157] The plate 160 may expose the light source 153 without covering it. The light source 153 may be arranged vertically on both sides with the first sensor 154 in between. The plate 160 may be open at a position corresponding to the position of the light source 153. When the plate 160 is attached to the PCB assembly 150, the light source 153 may be exposed through an area formed by the opening of the plate 160.

[0158] Therefore, the light emitted by the light source 153 is not blocked, and the first sensor 154 and / or the printed circuit printed on the PCB 151 are not exposed to the outside and can be protected from the outside.

[0159] In addition, the first sensor 154 can sense changes in the electromagnetic characteristics of the surroundings while being covered by the plate 160 .

[0160] 20, the PCB assembly 150 may extend longitudinally along the column 140 within the column 140. The PCB 151 may extend longitudinally along the column 140. A connector 152 formed at one end of the PCB assembly 150 may be exposed to the lower side of the upper body 120. The connector 152 may be exposed to the lower side of the column 140. The connector 152 may be exposed to the lower side of the mount 130. The lower end of the column 140 may be open to form a gap 146. The connector 152 may be exposed to the lower side through the gap 146. The gap 146 may be in communication with the installation space 144 (see FIG. 17).

[0161] The mount 130 may include a sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on one side wall of the mount 130. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on one side wall of the mount 130 to open downward, thereby providing a space 137b into which the second sensor 180 is inserted. The space 137b provided by the sensor receiving portion 137 may be referred to as a sensor receiving space 137b. An inner surface of the sensor receiving portion 137 may constitute a part of an inner surface 131 of the mount 130. An outer surface of the sensor receiving portion 137 may constitute a part of an outer surface 132 of the mount 130. The sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed at a position facing the column 140 with the container receiving space 134 at the center. The column 140 may extend upward from one side of the mount 130, and the sensor receiving portion 137 may be formed on the other side of the mount 130.

[0162] The sensing hole 137a may be formed on the inner surface 131 of the sensor accommodating part 137. The sensing hole 137a may be formed between the sensor accommodating space 137b and the container accommodating space 134 to connect the sensor accommodating space 137b and the container accommodating space 134. The sensing hole 137a may be located adjacent to the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 8). The sensing hole 137a may face the cartridge inlet 224.

[0163] The sensing hole 137a can face the side. The cartridge inlet 224 is formed by opening the side of the second container 220, and the sensing hole 137a with the open side can face the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 8).

[0164] 21 and 22, the separation wall 112 of the lower body 110 may cover the upper side of the battery 190. The separation wall 112 may be disposed in a direction intersecting with the side wall 111 of the lower body 110 at the upper part of the lower body 110. The separation wall 112 may cover the upper side of the internal components of the lower body 110. The separation wall 112 may separate a space in which the internal components of the lower body 110 are provided from a space to which the upper body 120 is coupled. The separation wall 112 may be disposed at the lower part of the upper body 120. The side wall 111 of the lower body 110 may extend upwardly beyond the separation wall 112 and may surround the periphery of the separation wall 112. The inner peripheral surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110 extending above the separation wall 112 may surround the periphery of the lower part of the mount 130.

[0165] The second sensor 180 may be provided on an upper portion of one side of the lower body 110. The second sensor 180 may be disposed on the upper side of the separation wall 112. The second sensor 180 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the sensor receiving portion 137 of the mount 130. The sensor support portion 185 may extend upward from one side of the separation wall 112 to support the second sensor 180. The second sensor 180 may be disposed to face in a lateral direction.

[0166] The upper body 120 may be coupled to an upper side of the lower body 110. The body latch 115 may be formed on an upper portion of the lower body 110. The body latch 115 may be formed on one end of the separation wall 112. The body latch 115 may have a protruding shape. The body latch 115 may be inserted into a fastening hole 135 of the mount 130 to fasten the mount 130 and the lower body 110 together.

[0167] The body rib 116 may have a shape that protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may have a shape that extends along the inner peripheral surface of the side wall 111 of the lower body 110. The body rib 116 may be made of an elastic material. For example, the body rib 116 may be manufactured from a material such as rubber or silicone. The body rib 116 may be disposed above the separation wall 112. The body rib 116 may be inserted into the rib groove 136 of the mount 130 to be in close contact with it.

[0168] The second fixing portion 118 may be disposed on an upper portion of the lower body 110. The second fixing portion 118 may be formed at a position corresponding to the first fixing portion 138. The second fixing portion 118 may be formed on the periphery of the separation wall 112. The second fixing portion 118 may have a shape that protrudes upward or is recessed downward. The second fixing portion 118 may include a plurality of second fixing portions. The second fixing portion 118 may be coupled to the first fixing portion 138 of the mount 130.

[0169] Thus, the upper body 120 can be coupled to the lower body 110 .

[0170] In addition, the mount 130 can be stably fixed to the lower body 110, so that the upper body 120 can be prevented from shaking relative to the lower body 110.

[0171] The connection terminal hole 133a may be formed in the bottom 133 of the mount 130. The connection terminal hole 133a may have a slit shape. The connection terminal hole 133a may include a pair of connection terminal holes (see FIG. 20). The first connection terminal 191 may be formed to protrude above the separation wall 112. The first connection terminal 191 may include a pair of first connection terminals. The first connection terminal 191 and the connection terminal hole 133a may be formed at positions corresponding to each other. When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the first connection terminal 191 may be exposed to the container receiving space 134 through the connection terminal hole 133a. When the second cartridge 200 is coupled to the upper body 120, the heater 262 (see FIG. 8) may be in contact with the first connection terminal 191 and be electrically connected to at least one of the devices such as the battery 190 and the control device 193. The devices to be electrically connected are not limited thereto.

[0172] The PCB assembly 150 may be electrically connected to devices inside the lower body 110 through a connector 152 exposed at the lower side of the upper body 120. One side of the separation wall 112 may be opened to form a connector insertion hole 117. The connector insertion hole 117 may be formed at a position corresponding to the column 140. The connector insertion hole 117 may be open upward. The connection terminal 192 may be located below the connector insertion hole 117 inside the lower body 110. When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the connector 152 may be inserted into the connector insertion hole 117 and contact the second connection terminal 192. When the connector 152 contacts the second connection terminal 192, the PCB assembly 150 may be electrically connected to at least one device, such as a battery 190 and a control device 193, through the connector 152. The devices to be electrically connected are not limited thereto.

[0173] When the upper body 120 is coupled to the lower body 110, the second sensor 180 may be inserted into a space 137b provided by the sensor receiving portion 137. The sensor receiving portion 137 may surround the second sensor 180. When the mount 130 is coupled to the lower body 110, the second sensor 180 may be inserted upward from the lower side of the sensor receiving space 137b. A sensing hole 137a formed by opening the sensor receiving portion 137 may be open toward the cartridge 200. The second sensor 180 may face the sensing hole 137a inside the sensor receiving portion 137. The second sensor 180 may be disposed inside the sensor receiving portion 137 to face the cartridge inlet 224 (see FIG. 15). The second sensor 180 may sense the flow of air flowing around the sensing hole 137a.

[0174] 23-25, the cartridge 200 may include at least one of a first container 210, a second container 220, a wick 261, and a heater 262. The cartridge 200 may include a sealing member 250.

[0175] The first container 210 may be formed in a hollow shape. An outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may surround an internal space. The first container 210 may provide a first chamber C1 for storing liquid therein. The first chamber C1 may be open on one side or on the bottom. The first container 210 may include an insertion space 214 into which the stick 400 can be inserted. The first chamber C1 and the stick 400 may be partitioned from each other inside the first container 210. The insertion space 214 may have an elongated shape with both ends open. The insertion space 214 may be elongated vertically and open at the top and bottom. The periphery of the insertion space 214 may extend in a circumferential direction. The insertion space 214 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0176] The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 is located inside the first container 210 and may divide the inner space of the first container 210. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may define a first chamber C1 on one side of the space surrounded by the outer wall 211 of the first container 210, and may define an insertion space 214 on the other side. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may extend in the circumferential direction and may surround at least a portion of the periphery of the insertion space 214.

[0177] Therefore, the efficiency of the space for storing liquid can be improved, and the convenience of the inhalation action for the user can be improved.

[0178] The second container 220 may be coupled to the first container 210. The second container 220 may be coupled to one side or the bottom of the first container 210. The second container 220 may close the open side of the first chamber C1. The second container 220 may provide a second chamber C2 therein that communicates with the insertion space 214. The wick 261 may be provided inside the second container 220.

[0179] The cartridge inlet 224 can communicate the second chamber C2 with the outside of the cartridge 200. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed in an outer wall of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed in a side wall 221 of the second container 220. The cartridge inlet 224 can be open in a lateral direction. The cartridge inlet 224 can be formed at a position higher than the bottom 222 of the second container 220.

[0180] Therefore, it is possible to prevent droplets present in the connecting flow channel 2314 from leaking out of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224 .

[0181] The second container 220 may include at least one of a lower case 230 and a frame 240. The lower case 230 may form an outer shape of the second container 220. The lower case 230 may be disposed below the first container 210. The lower case 230 may be coupled to the first container 210. The lower case 230 may be coupled to an outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The periphery of the lower case 230 may be coupled to the periphery of the first container 210. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in the outer wall of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed in a side wall 2311 of the lower case 230. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than a bottom 2312 of the lower case 230. The lower case 230 may provide an accommodating space 2310 therein. The lower case 230 may accommodate at least a portion of the frame 240 in the accommodating space 2310. The lower case 230 can support a frame 240 .

[0182] The lower case 230 may include a receiving part 231. The receiving part 231 may provide an receiving space 2310 therein. The receiving space 2310 may be formed above the receiving part 231. The receiving part 231 may surround the sides and the bottom of the receiving space 2310. A sidewall 2311 of the receiving part 231 may surround the sides of the receiving space 2310. A bottom 2312 of the receiving part 231 may cover the bottom of the receiving space 2310. The second chamber C2 may be formed at a position where the receiving space 2310 is formed. The receiving part 231 may surround a portion of the second chamber C2.

[0183] The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side of the accommodating portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on an outer wall of the accommodating portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed on one side wall 2311 of the accommodating portion 231. The cartridge inlet 224 may be located adjacent to a lower side of the extension portion 232. The cartridge inlet 224 may be formed at a position higher than a bottom 2312 of the accommodating portion 231.

[0184] The receiving part 231 may have a connection channel 2314 therein. The connection channel 2314 may be in communication with the cartridge inlet 224. The connection channel 2314 may be formed between the receiving part 231 and the frame 240. The connection channel 2314 may be surrounded by the receiving part 231 and the frame 240. The connection channel 2314 may be located between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The connection channel 2314 may connect the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424.

[0185] The blocking wall 2317 may be formed on the connecting passage 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may be protruded upward from a bottom of the connecting passage 2314. The blocking wall 2317 may be protruded upward from a bottom 2312 of the receiving portion 231 or a bottom of the frame 240. The connecting passage 2314 may surround the blocking wall 2317. The blocking wall 2317 may be disposed between the cartridge inlet 224 and the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may be disposed between one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231 and one side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed parallel to one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231. The blocking wall 2317 may face one side wall 2311 of the receiving portion 231. The blocking wall 2317 may be formed parallel to one side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The blocking wall 2317 may face one side wall 2421 of the second frame part 242. The blocking wall 2317 may extend higher than the height of the cartridge inlet 224 and / or the chamber inlet 2424. The blocking wall 2317 may extend lower than the height of the extension part 232 and / or the bottom part 2411. The blocking wall 2317 may extend long in a direction intersecting the direction in which the cartridge inlet 224 and / or the chamber inlet 2424 open. The cartridge inlet 224 may face the blocking wall 2317. The chamber inlet 2424 may face the blocking wall 2317.

[0186] Therefore, the liquid droplets generated in the second chamber C2 can be prevented from leaking to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224.

[0187] The lower case 230 may include an extension 232 extending outward from the receiving portion 231. The extension 232 may extend outward from an upper end of one side of the receiving portion 231. The extension 232 may extend outward from a sidewall 2311 of the receiving portion 231 in which the cartridge inlet 224 is formed. The extension 232 may be located below the first chamber C1. The extension 232 may support the first frame portion 241.

[0188] The lower case 230 may include a peripheral portion 2322 coupled to the periphery of the first container 210. The peripheral portion 2322 may extend along the periphery of the lower case 230 from the upper end of the lower case 230. The peripheral portion 2322 may extend along the periphery of the receiving portion 231 and the extension portion 232. The peripheral portion 2322 may have a continuous band shape. The peripheral portion 2322 may have a shape protruding upward from the periphery of the lower case 230. The peripheral portion 2322 may be coupled to a lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be recessed upward so that the peripheral portion 2322 can be inserted therein. The peripheral portion 2322 and the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be attached to each other via an adhesive member. For example, the adhesive member may be a tape, a bond, or the like. The adhesive member is not limited to those described above.

[0189] The frame 240 may be disposed between the lower case 230 and the first container 210. At least a portion of the frame 240 may be received in the receiving space 2310. The frame 240 may be coupled to the lower case 230 within the receiving space 2310. The frame 240 may close the open side or the lower side of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may form the bottom of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may partition the inside of the lower case 230 to provide the second chamber C2. The frame 240 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2. The second chamber C2 may be surrounded by the frame 240 and the outer wall of the receiving part 231. The second chamber C2 may be formed below the insertion space 214. The second chamber C2 may be connected to the lower end of the insertion space 214. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed on one side of the frame 240. The chamber inlet 2424 may be connected to the second chamber C2.

[0190] The frame 240 may include a first frame portion 241 forming a bottom of the first chamber C1. The first frame portion 241 may close the open side of the first chamber C1. The frame 240 may include a second frame portion 242 partitioning the interior of the lower case 230 to provide the second chamber C2. The second frame portion 242 may be accommodated inside the lower case 230. The second frame portion 242 may be connected to the first frame portion 241. The second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of the second chamber C2.

[0191] The second frame portion 242 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 2310. A sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may surround at least a portion of a side of the second chamber C2. A bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242 may form the bottom of the second chamber C2. The accommodation portion 231 may support the second frame portion 242. A bottom 2312 of the accommodation portion 231 may support the bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed in the sidewall 2421 of the second frame portion 242. The chamber inlet 2424 may be open in a lateral direction. The chamber inlet 2424 may be formed at a position higher than the bottom of the second chamber C2 or the bottom 2422 of the second frame portion 242.

[0192] Therefore, the liquid droplets generated in the second chamber C2 can be prevented from leaking out of the second chamber C2 through the chamber inlet 2424.

[0193] The first frame part 241 may have a shape extending outward from one side of the second frame part 242. The first frame part 241 may extend from an upper part of the receiving space 2310 in a direction in which the extension part 232 extends. The first frame part 241 may cover a portion of an upper side of the lower case 230. The lower case 230 may support one side of the first frame part 241.

[0194] The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may form a bottom of the first chamber C1. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may extend outward from an upper end of one side wall 2421 of the second frame part 242. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may extend in a direction in which the extension part 232 is formed. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may cover the extension part 232 and an upper side of the connection channel 2314. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 may be supported by the extension part 232.

[0195] The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may extend from one side of the periphery of the bottom 2422 of the second frame part 242 along the periphery of the bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241. The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may have a band shape extending along the edge of the bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241. The sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 may protrude upward from the periphery of the bottom 2411. A portion of the sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 adjacent to the second frame part 242 may be received in the receiving space 2310. The sidewall 2311 of the receiving part 231 may support a portion of the sidewall 2412 of the first frame part 241 adjacent to the second frame part 242.

[0196] The sidewall 2311 and the bottom 2312 of the receiving part 231 may surround one side of the connecting passage 2314. The bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 and the sidewall 2421 of the second frame part 242 may surround the other side of the connecting passage 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may extend round between the first frame part 241 and the second frame part 242. The rounded surface 2418 may face one side of the connecting passage 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may extend round from the first frame part 241 toward the chamber inlet 2424. The rounded surface 2418 may extend round from the bottom 2411 of the first frame part 241 toward the sidewall 2421 of the second frame part 242. The rounded surface 2418 may be located on the upper side of the connecting passage 2314. The rounded surface 2418 may be spaced upward from the blocking wall 2317. A portion of the connecting channel 2314 may be located between the rounded surface 2418 and the blocking wall 2317 .

[0197] The hook 2415 may be formed on the first frame part 241. The hook 2415 may be formed adjacent to the periphery of the first frame part 241. The hook 2415 may protrude upward from the bottom part 2411 of the first frame part 241 and have an outwardly curved shape. The hook 2415 may be located adjacent to or in contact with the side wall 2412 of the first frame part 241. An end of the hook 2415 may be curved outward and disposed on the upper side of the side wall 2412 of the first frame part 241. The hook 2415 may be made up of a plurality of hooks. The plurality of hooks 2415 may be arranged along the periphery of the first frame part 241. The hook 2415 may be made up of three hooks. The sealing member 250 may be fastened to the hooks 2415.

[0198] The wick 261 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be connected to the first chamber C1. The wick 261 may receive the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from the first chamber C1. The heater 262 may be provided in the second chamber C2. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261. The heater 262 may wind up the wick 261. The heater 262 may heat the wick 261 that has received the liquid to generate an aerosol in the second chamber C2. The wick 261 may be fixed to the second frame part 242. The wick insertion groove 2426 may be formed such that the side wall 2421 of the second frame part 242 is recessed downward. A pair of wick insertion grooves 2426 may be formed on both sides. Both ends of the wick 261 may be inserted into and fixed in the wick insertion grooves 2426 on both sides, respectively.

[0199] Air can flow into the cartridge 200 through the cartridge inlet 224. The air flowing in through the cartridge inlet 224 can sequentially pass through the connecting flow path 2314, the chamber inlet 2424, the second chamber C2, and the insertion space 214. The air passing through the connecting flow path 2314 can flow along the rounded surface 2418 between the blocking wall 2317 and the rounded surface 2418 and can flow into the chamber inlet 2424. The air passing through the second chamber C2 can flow with the aerosol generated in the second chamber C2.

[0200] Therefore, the loss of air flow in the connecting channel 2314 can be reduced.

[0201] Additionally, the aerosol can be provided to the insertion space 214 and / or to a stick 400 inserted into the insertion space 214 .

[0202] The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first container 210 and the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 having one open side and the second container 220 closing the open side of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be disposed or inserted between the first chamber C1 and the frame 240. The sealing member 250 may surround a lower end of the first chamber C1. The sealing member 250 may be in close contact with the first container 210 and the frame 240. A portion of the sealing member 250 may be in close contact with the second container 220. The sealing member 250 may have a continuous strip shape.

[0203] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid stored in the first chamber C1 from leaking through a gap formed at the joining portion between the members that define the first chamber C1.

[0204] The sealing member 250 may include at least one of a first sealing portion 251 and a second sealing portion 252. The first sealing portion 251 may be disposed or inserted between the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the first frame portion 241. The first sealing portion 251 may extend along the outer wall 211 of the first container 210. The first sealing portion 251 may be in close contact with the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 and the side wall 2411 of the first frame portion 241. The first sealing portion 251 may be fastened to a hook 2415 formed on the first frame portion 241. The plurality of hooks 2415 may be arranged along the periphery of the first sealing portion 251. At least a portion of the first sealing portion 251 may be inserted between an end of the hook 2415 and the side wall 2412 of the first frame portion 241 to be in close contact.

[0205] The second sealing portion 252 may be connected to the first sealing portion 251. The second sealing portion 252 may be disposed between the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and the second frame portion 242. The second sealing portion 252 may be disposed between the first chamber C1 and the second chamber C2. The second sealing portion 252 may extend from the first sealing portion 251 along the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may be in close contact with the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 and an upper end of the second frame portion 242. The inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may press an upper portion of the second sealing portion 252 toward the second frame portion 242. A portion of the second sealing portion 252 may be inserted into the second frame portion 242.

[0206] 25, the side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may surround the side of the second chamber C2. The side wall 2421 of the second frame portion 242 may be located adjacent to a lower end of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0207] The lower support surface 2522 and the side support surface 2523 may surround and be in close contact with a lower edge of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The lower support surface 2522 may support a lower surface of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The lower support surface 2522 may extend along the periphery of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0208] The side support surface 2523 may extend along the periphery of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The side support surface 2523 may support a side surface adjacent to a lower end surface of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0209] The support portion 2428 may be disposed below the inner wall 212 of the first container 210. The support portion 2428 may be located on an extension of the inner wall 212 of the first container 210.

[0210] The first container 210 may be coupled to the second container 220. An outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be coupled to the periphery of the lower case 230. A lower end of the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be recessed upward so that the periphery 2322 may be inserted therein. The outer wall 211 of the first container 210 may be attached to the periphery 2322.

[0211] When the first container 210 is coupled to the lower case 230 , the first sealing portion 251 may be in close contact with the first frame portion 241 and the outer wall 211 of the first container 210 .

[0212] When the first container 210 is coupled to the lower case 230, the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 may press the second sealing portion 252 toward the second frame portion 242. When the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 presses the second sealing portion 252, the second sealing portion 252 may be in close contact with the inner wall 212 and the second frame portion 242 of the first container 210. The second sealing portion 252 may transmit the force received from the inner wall 212 of the first container 210 to the first sealing portion 251 and the second frame portion 242.

[0213] Therefore, the number of parts to be bonded via adhesive members can be reduced, the number of parts required for bonding between components can be reduced, the internal bonding structure of the cartridge 200 can be simplified, and manufacturability can be improved.

[0214] In addition, the sealing member 250 can be stably attached or fixed without a separate adhesive member, and can closely seal the periphery.

[0215] 26, the stick 400 may include a medium portion 410. The stick 400 may include a cooling portion 420. The stick 400 may include a filter portion 430. The cooling portion 420 may be disposed between the medium portion 410 and the filter portion 430. The stick 400 may include a wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 may encase the medium portion 410. The wrapper 440 may encase the cooling portion 420. The wrapper 440 may encase the filter portion 430. The stick 400 may have a cylindrical shape.

[0216] The medium portion 410 may include a medium 411. The medium portion 410 may include a first medium cover 413. The medium portion 410 may include a second medium cover 415. The medium 411 may be disposed between the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415. The first medium cover 413 may be disposed at one end of the stick 400. The length of the medium portion 410 may be 24 mm.

[0217] The medium 411 may contain various substances. The substances contained in the medium may be flavor substances of various ingredients. The medium 411 may be composed of a plurality of granules. Each of the plurality of granules may have a size of 0.4 mm to 1.12 mm. The medium 411 may be filled with granules to about 70%. The length L2 of the medium 411 may be 10 mm. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of an acetate material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of an acetate material. The first medium cover 413 may be composed of a paper material. The second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material. At least one of the first medium cover 413 and the second medium cover 415 may be composed of a paper material and may have a wrinkled shape, and a plurality of gaps may be formed between them for air to flow. The gaps may be smaller than the size of each granule of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L3 of the second medium cover 413 may be shorter than the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L1 of the first medium cover 413 may be 7 mm. The length L2 of the second medium cover 413 may be 7 mm.

[0218] Therefore, each granule of medium 411 cannot leave medium portion 410 and stick 400 .

[0219] The cooling part 420 may have a cylindrical shape. The cooling part 420 may have a hollow shape. The cooling part 420 may be disposed between the medium part 410 and the filter part 430. The cooling part 420 may be disposed between the second medium part 415 and the filter part 430. The cooling part 420 may be formed in a tubular shape surrounding the cooling passage 424 therein. The cooling part 420 may be thicker than the wrapper 440. The cooling part 420 may be made of a paper material that is thicker than the wrapper 440. The length L4 of the cooling part 420 may be the same as or approximately the same as the length L2 of the medium 411. The length L4 of the cooling part 420 and the cooling passage 424 may be 10 mm. When the stick 400 is inserted into the aerosol generating device (see FIG. 3), at least a part of the cooling part 420 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device.

[0220] Therefore, the cooling unit 420 supports the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, and can ensure the rigidity of the stick 400. In addition, the cooling unit 420 supports the wrapper 440 between the medium unit 410 and the filter unit 430, and can ensure a portion where the wrapper 440 is adhered. In addition, the heated air and aerosol can be cooled while passing through the cooling passage 424 inside the cooling unit 420.

[0221] The filter part 430 may be composed of a filter made of acetate material. The filter part 430 may be disposed at the other end of the stick 400. When the stick 400 is inserted into the inside of the aerosol generating device (see FIG. 3), the filter part 430 may be exposed to the outside of the aerosol generating device. A user may inhale air by holding the filter part 430 in their mouth. The length L5 of the filter part 430 may be 14 mm.

[0222] The wrapper 440 may wrap or surround the medium part 410, the cooling part 420, and the filter part 430. The wrapper 440 may form the outer shape of the stick 400. The wrapper 440 may be made of a paper material. The adhesive part 441 may be formed on one side edge of the wrapper 440. The wrapper 440 wraps the medium part 410, the cooling part 420, and the filter part 430, and the adhesive part 441 formed on one side edge and the other side edge may be adhered to each other. The wrapper 440 wrapping the medium part 410, the cooling part 420, and the filter part 430 does not have to cover one end and the other end of the stick 400.

[0223] Therefore, the wrapper 440 can fix the medium portion 410 , the cooling portion 420 and the filter portion 430 and prevent them from coming off the stick 400 .

[0224] The first thin film 443 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the first medium cover 413, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The first thin film 443 may surround the first medium cover 413. The first thin film 443 may be made of a metal material. The first thin film 443 may be made of an aluminum material. The first thin film 443 may be adhered to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0225] The second thin film 445 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the second medium cover 415. The second thin film 445 may be disposed between the wrapper 440 and the second medium cover 415, or may be disposed outside the wrapper 440. The second thin film 445 may be made of a metal material. The second thin film 445 may be made of an aluminum material. The second thin film 445 may be attached to or coated on the wrapper 440.

[0226] Therefore, when a capacitance sensor that recognizes a stick is inserted inside the aerosol generating device, the capacitance sensor can detect whether the stick 400 is inserted inside the aerosol generating device.

[0227] FIG. 27 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0228] Referring to FIG. 27, the aerosol generating device 1000 may include a communication interface 1100, an input / output interface 1200, an aerosol generating module 1300, a memory 1400, a sensor module 1500, a battery 1600, and / or a control unit 1700.

[0229] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1000 may be composed of only the body 100. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1000 may be located in the body 100. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device 1000 may be composed of the body 100 and a cartridge 200 that holds an aerosol generating material. In this case, the components included in the aerosol generating device 1000 may be located in at least one of the body 100 and the cartridge 200.

[0230] The communication interface 1100 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or a network. For example, the communication interface 1100 may include a communication module for wired communication such as a universal serial bus (USB). For example, the communication interface 1100 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee (registered trademark), near field communication (NFC), etc.

[0231] The input / output interface 1200 may include an input device that receives commands from a user and / or an output device that outputs information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, a physical button, a microphone, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device that outputs visual information such as a display or an LED, an audio device that outputs auditory information such as a speaker or a buzzer, a motor that outputs tactile information such as a haptic effect, etc.

[0232] The input device may include at least one physical button. Here, the button may be embodied as a push button, etc. For example, the input device may include a button associated with turning on / off the power of the aerosol generating device 1000, a button associated with adjusting the amount of aerosol generated, etc.

[0233] The input / output interface 1200 can transmit data corresponding to a command input by a user via an input device to other components (and the like) of the aerosol generating device 1000. The input / output interface 1200 can output information corresponding to data received from other components (and the like) of the aerosol generating device 1000 via an output device.

[0234] The aerosol generating module 1300 can generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. Here, the aerosol generating material can be any one of a variety of materials, such as a liquid, solid, or gel, capable of generating an aerosol, or a combination of two or more materials.

[0235] The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing materials, including volatile tobacco flavor components, in one embodiment. The liquid aerosol generating material may be a liquid containing non-tobacco materials, in other embodiments. For example, the liquid aerosol generating material may include water, solvents, nicotine, botanical extracts, flavors, flavorings, vitamin blends, and the like.

[0236] The solid-state aerosol-generating material may include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials, such as reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco, granules, etc. The solid-state aerosol-generating material may also include solid materials containing taste modifiers, flavoring substances, etc. For example, taste modifiers may include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium oxide, etc. For example, flavoring substances may include natural substances such as herb granules, or silica, zeolite, dextrin, etc., containing aroma ingredients.

[0237] Additionally, the aerosol generating material may further include an aerosol forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0238] The aerosol generation module 1300 can include at least one heater.

[0239] The aerosol generating module 1300 may include an electrically resistive heater (e.g., heater 262, see FIG. 2). For example, the electrically resistive heater may include at least one electrically conductive track. The electrically resistive heater may be heated by an electric current passing through the electrically conductive track. Here, the aerosol generating material may be heated by the heated electrically resistive heater.

[0240] The electrically conductive track may comprise an electrically resistive material. As an example, the electrically conductive track may be formed of a metallic material. As another example, the electrically conductive track may be formed of a ceramic material, carbon, a metal alloy, or a composite of a ceramic material and a metal.

[0241] The electrical resistive heater may include an electrically conductive track formed in a variety of shapes, for example, the electrically conductive track may be formed in any one of a tube, a plate, a needle, a rod, and a coil.

[0242] The aerosol-generating module 1300 may include a heater using an induction heating method. For example, an induction heater may include an electrically conductive coil. The aerosol-generating module 1300 may generate an alternating magnetic field whose direction changes periodically by controlling a current flowing through the electrically conductive coil. Here, when the alternating magnetic field is applied to a magnetic material, energy loss due to eddy current loss and hysteresis loss may occur in the magnetic material. The lost energy is released as thermal energy, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material adjacent to the magnetic material. Here, the object that generates heat by the magnetic field may be called a susceptor.

[0243] On the other hand, the aerosol generating module 1300 can also generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating substance by generating ultrasonic vibrations.

[0244] The aerosol generating module 1300 may be referred to as a cartomizer, an atomizer, a vaporizer, or the like.

[0245] The memory 1400 can store programs for signal processing and control within the control unit 1700, and can store processed data and data to be processed.

[0246] For example, the memory 1400 may store application programs designed for the purpose of performing various operations processable by the controller 1700. For example, the memory 1400 may selectively provide a portion of the stored application programs upon request of the controller 1700.

[0247] For example, the memory 1400 may store data on the operation time of the aerosol generating device 1000, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, data on the inhalation pattern of the user, etc. Here, a puff may be an inhalation by the user. Inhalation may be an act of the user drawing air into the oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the mouth or nose.

[0248] The memory 1400 may include at least one of a volatile memory (e.g., DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.), a non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0249] The memory 1400 may be disposed in at least one of the body 100, the cartridge 200, and the cap 300. The memory 1400 may be disposed in each of the body 100 and the cartridge 200. For example, the memory of the body 100 may store information about a configuration disposed inside the body 100, such as information about the total capacity of the battery 190, and the memory of the cartridge 200 may store information about a configuration disposed inside the cartridge 200, such as information about the resistance value of the heater 262.

[0250] The sensor module 1500 can include at least one sensor.

[0251] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor for detecting a puff (hereinafter, referred to as a puff sensor), for example, the second sensor 180 (see FIG. 2). Here, the puff sensor may be implemented by a proximity sensor such as an IR sensor, a pressure sensor, a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic field sensor, or the like.

[0252] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a temperature sensor) that detects the temperature of the heater 262 included in the aerosol generation module 1300, the temperature of the aerosol generation material, etc.

[0253] Here, the heater 262 included in the aerosol generation module 1300 may also function as a temperature sensor. For example, the electrically resistive material of the heater 262 may be a material having a temperature coefficient of resistance. For example, the sensor module 1500 may sense the temperature of the heater 262 by measuring the resistance of the heater 262, which changes depending on the temperature.

[0254] For example, if a stick can be inserted into the body 100 and / or cartridge 200 of the aerosol generating device 1000, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor that detects the insertion of a stick (hereinafter referred to as a stick sensor).

[0255] For example, in the case where the aerosol generating device 1000 includes the cartridge 200, the sensor module 1500 may include a sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a cartridge detection sensor) that detects the attachment / detachment, position, etc. of the cartridge 200 relative to the body 100.

[0256] Here, the stick sensor and / or cartridge detection sensor may be implemented using an inductance-based sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor, a Hall sensor using the Hall effect, etc. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the first sensor 154 (see FIG. 17) may be configured as a stick detection sensor. Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge detection sensor may include a first connection terminal 191 (see FIG. 21).

[0257] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include a voltage sensor that detects the voltage applied to a component (e.g., battery 1600) provided in the aerosol generating device 1000 and / or a current sensor that detects the current.

[0258] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a motion sensor) that senses the motion of the aerosol generating device 1000. Here, the motion sensor may be embodied by at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor.

[0259] For example, the sensor module 1500 may include at least one sensor (hereinafter, referred to as a contact sensor) that detects contact by an object. Here, the contact sensor may be implemented as at least one of a force sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to the magnitude of force applied by contact and a touch sensor that outputs a signal corresponding to a state change caused by contact. For example, the touch sensor may be, but is not limited to, a capacitive touch sensor, a resistive touch sensor, a surface acoustic wave touch sensor, an infrared touch sensor, or the like.

[0260] The battery 1600 may supply power used for the operation of the aerosol generating device 1000 under the control of the control unit 1700. The battery 1600 may supply power to other components provided in the aerosol generating device 1000, such as a communication module included in the communication interface 1100, an output device included in the input / output interface 1200, and a heater 262 included in the aerosol generating module 1300. For example, the battery 1600 may be the battery 190 housed inside the lower body 110.

[0261] The battery 1600 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 1600 may be a lithium-ion battery, a lithium-polymer battery, a lithium-ion phosphate battery, etc., but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the battery 1600 may be a lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) battery, a lithium titanate battery, etc.

[0262] The aerosol generating device 1000 may further include a battery protection circuit module (PCM) which is a circuit for protecting the battery 1600. The battery protection module (PCM) may be disposed adjacent to an upper surface of the battery 1600. For example, in order to prevent overcharging and overdischarging of the battery 1600, the battery protection module (PCM) may cut off an electric path to the battery 1600 when a short circuit occurs in a circuit connected to the battery 1600, when an overvoltage is applied to the battery 1600, when an overcurrent flows through the battery 1600, etc.

[0263] The aerosol generating device 1000 may further include a charging terminal to which power supplied from an external source is input. For example, a charging terminal (e.g., a charging port 119 (see FIG. 2)) may be formed on one side of the body 100 of the aerosol generating device 1000. The aerosol generating device 1000 may charge the battery 1600 using the power supplied through the charging terminal. Here, the charging terminal may be a wired terminal for USB communication, a pogo pin, or the like.

[0264] The aerosol generating device 1000 can also wirelessly receive power supplied from an external source via the communication interface 1100. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can receive power wirelessly via an antenna included in a communication module for wireless communication. For example, the aerosol generating device can charge the battery 1600 using the wirelessly supplied power.

[0265] The control unit 1700 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, the control unit 1700 can include a control device 193 housed inside the lower body 110.

[0266] The control unit 1700 may be connected to each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000. The control unit 1700 may transmit and / or receive signals between each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0267] The control unit 1700 may include at least one processor. The control unit 1700 may use the processor to control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 1000. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC, or a processor based on other hardware.

[0268] The control unit 1700 can achieve any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, the control unit 1700 can achieve any one of a plurality of functions of the aerosol generating device 1000 (e.g., a preheating function, a heating function, a charging function, a cleaning function, etc.) according to the state of each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000, a user's command received via the input / output interface 1200, etc.

[0269] The control unit 1700 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000 based on the data stored in the memory 1400. For example, the control unit 1700 can control the battery 1600 to supply a predetermined amount of power to the aerosol generating module 1300 for a predetermined period of time based on data about a temperature profile, a user's inhalation pattern, etc. stored in the memory 1400.

[0270] The control unit 1700 may determine the occurrence of a puff through a puff sensor included in the sensor module 1500. For example, the control unit 1700 may check a temperature change, a flow change, a pressure change, a voltage change, etc. in the aerosol generating device 1000 based on a sensing value of the puff sensor, and may determine the occurrence of a puff based on the checked result.

[0271] The control unit 1700 can control the operation of each component included in the aerosol generating device 1000 according to the occurrence of puffs and / or the number of puffs. For example, the control unit 1700 can control the heater 262 to change or maintain the temperature based on the temperature profile stored in the memory 1400.

[0272] The control unit 1700 may control to cut off the power supply to the heater 262 according to a predetermined condition. For example, the control unit 1700 may control to cut off the power supply to the heater 262 when the stick 400 is removed from the insertion space 214, when the cartridge 200 is separated from the body 100, when the number of puffs reaches a predetermined maximum number of puffs, when no puffs are detected for a predetermined time or more, when the remaining capacity of the battery 1600 is less than a predetermined value, etc.

[0273] The control unit 1700 may calculate the remaining capacity of the power stored in the battery 1600. For example, the control unit 1700 may calculate the remaining capacity of the battery 1600 based on the sensing values ​​of a voltage sensor and / or a current sensor included in the sensor module 1500.

[0274] The control unit 1700 may control the supply of power to the heater 262 using at least one of a pulse width modulation (PWM) method and a proportional-integral-differential (PID) method.

[0275] For example, the control unit 1700 may use a PWM method to control the supply of a current pulse having a predetermined frequency and duty ratio to the heater 262. Here, the control unit 1700 may control the power supplied to the heater 262 by adjusting the frequency and duty ratio of the current pulse.

[0276] For example, the control unit 1700 can determine a target temperature to be a control target based on the temperature profile. Here, the control unit 1700 can control the power supplied to the heater 262 using a PID method, which is a feedback control method based on a difference between the temperature of the heater 262 and the target temperature, a value obtained by integrating the difference over time, and a value obtained by differentiating the difference over time.

[0277] Meanwhile, the PWM method and the PID method have been described as examples of control methods for supplying power to the heater 262, but the present invention is not limited to these, and various control methods such as the PI (Proportional-Integral) method and the PD (Proportional-Differential) method can be used.

[0278] 28 and 29 are diagrams illustrating an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0279] 28 and 29, the aerosol generation system 10 may include an aerosol generation device 1000, a control device 2000 and / or a storage device 3000.

[0280] The control device 2000 may be communicatively coupled to the aerosol generation device 1000. For example, the control device 2000 may be communicatively coupled to the aerosol generation device 1000 via wired communication using a cable 4000. For example, the control device 2000 may be communicatively coupled to the aerosol generation device 1000 via wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0281] The control device 2000 may be, for example, a desktop computer, a notebook computer, a smartphone, a tablet PC, etc., and is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of transmitting a control signal to the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0282] The storage device 3000 may be a device that stores an identifier (ID) for user authentication. The storage device 3000 may be communicably connected to the control device 2000. The storage device 3000 may be realized by a USB flash drive, a dongle, etc. connected to a terminal 2015 provided in the control device 2000.

[0283] FIG. 30 is a block diagram of the control device and storage device of FIG.

[0284] Referring to FIG. 30, a control device 2000 may include a communication interface 2010, a memory 2020, an input / output interface 2030, and / or a control unit 2040.

[0285] The communication interface 2010 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device and / or network. For example, the communication interface 2010 may include a communication module for wired communication such as USB, recommended standard 232 (RS-232), registered jack-45 (RJ-45), etc. For example, the communication interface 2010 may include a communication module for wireless communication such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), SigBee, NFC, etc.

[0286] The control device 2000 may include a terminal for communication. For example, the storage device 3000 may perform communication using a cable connected to the terminal.

[0287] The memory 2020 may include at least one non-volatile memory (eg, a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0288] The memory 2020 can store programs for each signal processing and control in the control unit 2040. The memory 2020 can store processed data and data to be processed. Hereinafter, the terms "program" and "application" can be used interchangeably as necessary.

[0289] The memory 2020 can store a unique identifier for the control device 2000. For example, the identifier for the control device 2000 can be configured as a media access control address (MAC address), a serial number, an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), or the like.

[0290] The input / output interface 2030 may include an input device for receiving commands from a user and / or an output device for outputting information to a user. For example, the input device may include a touch panel, a physical button, etc. For example, the output device may include a display device for outputting visual information, such as a display, an audio device for outputting auditory information, such as a speaker, etc.

[0291] The control unit 2040 may control the overall operation of the control device 2000. The control unit 2040 may be connected to each component included in the control device 2000. The control unit 2040 may transmit and / or receive signals to each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0292] The control unit 2040 may include at least one processor. The control unit 2040 may use the processor to control the overall operation of the control device 2000. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0293] The storage device 3000 may include a communication interface 3010, a memory 3020, and / or a controller 3030.

[0294] The communication interface 3010 may include at least one communication module for communication with an external device. For example, the communication interface 3010 may include a communication module for wired communication such as USB, RS-232 (recommended standard 232), etc.

[0295] The storage device 3000 may include a terminal and / or a connector for communication. For example, the storage device 3000 may perform communication via a connector that is connected to a terminal 2015 (see FIG. 28) of an external device.

[0296] The memory 3020 may include at least one non-volatile memory (eg, a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc.).

[0297] The memory 3020 can store programs for each signal processing and control in the control unit 3030, and can store processed data and data to be processed.

[0298] The memory 3020 can store an identifier for user authentication. For example, the identifier for user authentication can be composed of letters, numbers, symbols, or a combination thereof.

[0299] The controller 3030 may control the overall operation of the storage device 3000. The controller 3030 may be connected to each component included in the storage device 3000. The controller 3030 may transmit and / or receive signals to each component to control the overall operation of each component.

[0300] The control unit 3030 may include at least one processor. The control unit 3030 may use the processor to control the overall operation of the storage device 3000. Here, the processor may be a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU). Of course, the processor may be a dedicated device such as an ASIC or a processor based on other hardware.

[0301] FIG. 31 is a flowchart of a method of operating an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0302] 31, the aerosol generating device 1000 and the control device 2000 may be communicatively coupled to each other in operation S3101. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 and the control device 2000 may be communicatively coupled to each other via wired communication using a cable.

[0303] The control device 2000 and the storage device 3000 may be communicatively coupled in operation S3102. For example, when a connector provided in the storage device 3000 is connected to a terminal provided in the control device 2000, the control device 2000 and the storage device 3000 may be communicatively coupled.

[0304] The control device 2000 may transmit the identifier of the control device 2000 stored in the memory 2020 to the storage device 3000 in operation S3103. For example, the control device 2000 may transmit the MAC address of the control device 2000 to the storage device 3000.

[0305] In operation S3104, the storage device 3000 may check the identifier of the control device 2000 received from the control device 2000 and determine whether the identifier of the control device 2000 corresponds to a predetermined identifier. Here, the predetermined identifier may be an identifier indicating a device capable of transmitting a control signal to the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, the storage device 3000 may determine whether the identifier of the control device 2000 corresponds to the predetermined identifier based on whether the identifier of the control device 2000 is included in a list of predetermined identifiers stored in the memory 3020.

[0306] If the identifier of the control device 2000 corresponds to a predetermined identifier, the storage device 3000 may transmit the identifier of the storage device 3000 to the control device 2000 in operation S3105.

[0307] The control device 2000 may execute an application related to user authentication in operation S3106. For example, when the control device 2000 is communicatively connected to the storage device 3000 or when the control device 2000 receives an identifier of the storage device 3000 from the storage device 3000, the control device 2000 may execute an application related to user authentication.

[0308] The control device 2000 may check the identifier of the storage device 3000 received from the storage device 3000 in operation S3107, and determine whether the identifier of the storage device 3000 corresponds to a predetermined identifier (hereinafter, referred to as an authentication identifier) ​​related to user authentication. Here, the authentication identifier may be an identifier indicating a device that grants the control device 2000 the authority to unlock the locked state of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0309] When an application related to user authentication is executed in operation S3108 and the identifier of the storage device 3000 corresponds to the authentication identifier, the control device 2000 may transmit a control signal including a predetermined command to the aerosol generating device 1000. Here, the control signal may include a command to unlock the locked state of the aerosol generating device 1000. The control signal may further include an identifier of the control device 2000 and / or an identifier of the storage device 3000.

[0310] Meanwhile, the control device 2000 may execute an application related to user authentication if the identifier of the storage device 3000 corresponds to an authentication identifier.

[0311] When the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a control signal from the control device 2000 in operation S3109, the aerosol generating device 1000 may release the locked state. Here, the locked state may be a state in which power supply to the heater 262 of the aerosol generating device 1000 is cut off. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may supply power stored in the battery 1600 to at least a part of the remaining components excluding the heater 262 before the locked state is released.

[0312] Meanwhile, when the locked state is released, the aerosol generating apparatus 1000 may output a message notifying that the locked state is released through an output device of the input / output interface 1200. For example, when the locked state is released, the aerosol generating apparatus 1000 may irradiate light through the light source 153. Here, the light irradiated from the light source 153 may be directed toward the chamber C1 through the outside of the insertion space 214. For example, when the locked state is released, the aerosol generating apparatus 1000 may generate vibrations by a motor that provides a haptic effect.

[0313] In operation S3110, the aerosol generating device 1000 can transmit an identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 to the control device 2000. Here, the identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 can be composed of the manufacturer, serial number, etc. of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0314] The control device 2000 may map and register the identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 and the identifier of the storage device 3000 in operation S3111. For example, the control device 2000 may register the identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 and the identifier of the storage device 3000 in a device list stored in the memory 2020. For example, the control device 2000 may transmit the identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 and the identifier of the storage device 3000 to an external server (not shown) via a network using an application related to user authentication.

[0315] In operation S3112, the aerosol generating device 1000 can store in the memory 1400 the identifier included in the control signal received from the control device 2000. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can store in the memory 1400 the identifier of the control device 2000 and / or the identifier of the storage device 3000 included in the control signal received from the control device 2000.

[0316] 32 is a flowchart of an operation method of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed description of the contents that overlap with those described in FIG. 31 will be omitted.

[0317] 32, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether the locked state is set in operation S3201. For example, when the power of the aerosol generating device 1000 is turned on, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether the locked state is set.

[0318] In operation S3202, in the locked state, the aerosol generating device 1000 can cut off the supply of power to the heater 262. For example, in the locked state, the aerosol generating device 1000 can supply power stored in the battery 1600 to at least a part of the remaining components excluding the heater 262, such as the communication module included in the communication interface 1100 and the input device included in the input / output interface 1200.

[0319] In operation S3203, the aerosol generating device 1000 can check whether a control signal is received from the control device 2000.

[0320] When the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a control signal from the control device 2000 in a locked state in operation S3204, it can monitor user input received through the input device of the input / output interface 1200.

[0321] In the following description, it is assumed that the input device of the input / output interface 1200 is implemented by at least a part of the sensors included in the sensor module 1500.

[0322] For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can monitor the reception of a button press input based on a button signal. Meanwhile, the button press input can be referred to as a user push input.

[0323] For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can monitor a change in a direction in which the aerosol generating device 1000 faces based on a signal from an acceleration sensor and / or a gyro sensor. For convenience of explanation, the direction in which the aerosol generating device 1000 faces may be a direction in which an upper end of the aerosol generating device 1000, for example, an upper wall 303 of the cap 300 faces.

[0324] For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 can monitor for receipt of a tap input hitting the aerosol generating device 1000 based on signals from an acceleration sensor and / or a gyro sensor.

[0325] For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may monitor the contact of a predetermined object based on a signal from a force sensor and / or a touch sensor. Here, the predetermined object may be an object corresponding to a user's body. Meanwhile, the contact of the predetermined object may be a touch input by the user.

[0326] The aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether a user input is received within a predetermined time in operation S3205. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether a user input is received within a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) from the time when a control signal is received from the control device 2000. Here, if the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a user input within the predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may output a message corresponding to the reception of the user input, for example, a vibration generated by a motor that provides a haptic effect, via an output device of the input / output interface 1200.

[0327] When the aerosol generating device 1000 does not receive a control signal from the control device 2000 in the locked state, or when the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a control signal from the control device 2000 but does not receive a user input within a predetermined time, the aerosol generating device 1000 may maintain the locked state. Here, the aerosol generating device 1000 may cut off the supply of power to the heater 262.

[0328] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 1000 can release the locked state if it receives a user input within a predetermined time in operation S3206.

[0329] In operation S3207, the aerosol generating device 1000 can generate predetermined data for user authentication (hereinafter, referred to as authentication data) based on a user input received via an input device of the input / output interface 1200. For example, when the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a user input within a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) from the time when the aerosol generating device 1000 receives a control signal from the control device 2000, the aerosol generating device 1000 can generate authentication data based on the user input received via the input device from the time when the aerosol generating device 1000 first receives the user input.

[0330] Here, the authentication data may be data on a user input pattern corresponding to a user who has a right to use the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, if the input device includes at least one button, the user input pattern may include at least one of the type of button, the number of times the button is pressed, the time the button is pressed, and the time interval between the times the button is pressed. For example, if the input device includes a motion sensor such as an acceleration sensor or a gyro sensor, the user input pattern may include at least one of the direction in which the aerosol generating device 1000 is facing and a tap input of hitting the aerosol generating device 1000. For example, if the input device includes a touch sensor, the user input pattern may include at least one of the number of times an object contacts, the time the object contacts, the time interval between the times the object contacts, and a change in the position where the object contacts.

[0331] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 1000 may generate authentication data when receiving a predetermined user input that terminates the reception of the user input for generating the authentication data. For example, when the input device includes at least one button, the aerosol generating device 1000 may interrupt the reception of the user input for generating the authentication data when receiving a user input of pressing a predetermined button for a predetermined period of time or more. Here, the aerosol generating device 1000 may generate the authentication data.

[0332] In addition, the aerosol generating device 1000 can store the generated authentication data in the memory 1400.

[0333] When the authentication data is generated in operation S3208, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether a user input corresponding to the authentication data is received. For example, the aerosol generating device 1000 may determine whether a direction in which the aerosol generating device 1000 is facing and / or a tap input pattern detected by a signal from a motion sensor, a touch input pattern detected by a contact sensor signal, a push input pattern detected by a button signal, etc. correspond to a user input pattern.

[0334] The aerosol generating device 1000 may provide power to the heater 262 if it receives user input corresponding to the authentication data, at operation S3209.

[0335] On the other hand, in operation S3210, the aerosol generating device 1000 may cut off the supply of power to the heater 262 if it does not receive a user input corresponding to the authentication data.

[0336] As described above, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the efficiency of gas flow can be improved, thereby improving the efficiency of heat transfer of the aerosol to the stick 400.

[0337] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the use of the aerosol generating device 1000 by a third party who is not authorized to use the device can be restricted.

[0338] Furthermore, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the results of user approval of the aerosol generating device 1000 can be systematically managed.

[0339] Referring to Figures 1 to 32, an aerosol generation system 10 according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an aerosol generation device 1000 that generates an aerosol, a control device 2000 that is communicatively connected to the aerosol generation device 1000, and a storage device 3000 that stores an identifier, and when the control device 2000 is communicatively connected to the storage device 3000, it checks the identifier of the storage device 3000 stored in the storage device 3000, and when the identifier of the storage device 3000 satisfies a predetermined condition, it transmits a control signal to the aerosol generation device 1000, and when the aerosol generation device 1000 receives the control signal from the control device 2000, it releases the locked state of the aerosol generation device 1000.

[0340] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control device 2000 is communicatively connected to the storage device 3000, the control device 2000 may transmit an identifier of the control device 2000 to the storage device 3000. The storage device 3000 may determine whether the identifier of the control device 2000 received from the control device 2000 corresponds to a predetermined identifier, and may transmit the identifier of the storage device 3000 to the control device 2000 if the identifier of the control device 2000 corresponds to the predetermined identifier.

[0341] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the identifier of the control device 2000 may include a media access control address (MAC address) of the control device 2000.

[0342] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control device 2000 receives an identifier of the storage device 3000 from the storage device 3000, the control device 2000 may determine whether the identifier of the control device 2000 corresponds to a predetermined identifier related to the user authentication, and if the identifier of the storage device 3000 corresponds to the predetermined identifier, it may determine that the identifier of the storage device 3000 satisfies the predetermined condition.

[0343] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the control device 2000 is communicatively connected to the storage device 3000, it executes an application related to the user authentication, and when the application is executed and the identifier of the storage device 3000 corresponds to the specified identifier, it can transmit a control signal to the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0344] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the control signal may include at least one of an identifier of the storage device 3000 and an identifier of the control device 2000. The aerosol generating device 1000 may include a memory 1400, and when the locked state is released, at least one of the identifier of the storage device 3000 and the identifier of the control device 2000 included in the control signal may be stored in the memory 1400.

[0345] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the locked state is released, the aerosol generating device 1000 may transmit an identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000 to the control device 2000. The control device 2000 may map and register the identifier of the storage device 3000 and the identifier of the aerosol generating device 1000.

[0346] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device 1000 includes a heater 262 that heats the aerosol generating material, and the power supply to the heater 262 can be cut off before the locked state is released.

[0347] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating device 1000 includes an input device, and when the locked state is released, it generates authentication data based on user input entered through the input device, and when user input corresponding to the generated authentication data is entered through the input device, it can supply power to the heater 262.

[0348] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, when the aerosol generating device 1000 receives the control signal from the control device 2000, it monitors whether the user input is received via the input device for a predetermined time, and if the user input is received within the predetermined time, it releases the locked state, and if the user input is not received within the predetermined time, it maintains the locked state.

[0349] The specific embodiments or other embodiments of the present disclosure described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct, and the structure or function of any or all of the elements of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be combined with other elements or combined with each other.

[0350] For example, configuration A described in one embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings and configuration B described in another embodiment of this disclosure and the drawings can be combined with each other. That is, even if a combination between configurations is not directly described, the combination is possible unless it is described that the combination is not possible.

[0351] Although the embodiments have been described above according to a number of exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that many other variations and embodiments are possible for those skilled in the art that fall within the scope of the principles of the present disclosure. More specifically, various modifications and variations are possible in the components and / or arrangements of the subject combinations within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims. In addition to the modifications and variations of the components and / or arrangements, other applications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: An input device; Memory, A control unit; a heater for heating the aerosol generating material; The control unit is The aerosol generating device is coupled to a control device when the aerosol generating device is in a locked state, receiving a control signal from the control device when the control device is connected to a storage device and the storage device identifier stored in the storage device satisfies a predetermined condition; When the control signal is received, the aerosol generating device is unlocked; The control unit further includes: If the locked state is released, generating authentication data based on a first user input inputted through the input device, and storing the authentication data in the memory; An aerosol generating device, characterized in that it supplies power to the heater when a second user input corresponding to the authentication data is input via the input device.

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, characterized in that when it is determined that the identifier of the control device provided from the control device to the storage device corresponds to a predetermined identifier, the identifier of the storage device is provided to the control device.

3. The identifier of the control device is the MAC address (media access The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , further comprising a control address.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein the identifier of the storage device is determined to satisfy a predetermined condition if the identifier is an identifier related to user authentication.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 , wherein when the control device is connected to the storage device, the control signal is transmitted by the control device when an application related to user authentication is executed.

6. the control signal includes at least one of an identifier of the storage device and an identifier of the control device; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , characterized in that when the locked state is released, the control unit further stores at least one of the identifier of the storage device and the identifier of the control device from the control signal in the memory.

7. The control unit further transmits a device identifier to the control device when the locked state is released; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the storage device identifier and the device identifier are associated with each other and registered in the control device.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit further cuts off the supply of power to the heater before the locked state is released.

9. The control unit further includes: When the control signal is received from the control device, monitoring whether a third user input is received via the input device for a predetermined time period; releasing the locked state when the third user input is received during the predetermined time; The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the locked state is maintained if the third user input is not received within the predetermined time.

10. 1. A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: Connecting the aerosol generating device in a locked state to the control device; receiving a control signal from the control device when the control device is connected to a storage device and the storage device identifier stored in the storage device satisfies a predetermined condition; When the control signal is received, the aerosol generating device is unlocked; If the locked state is released, generating authentication data based on a first user input inputted through an input device, and storing the authentication data in a memory; A method of operating an aerosol generating device, comprising: supplying power to a heater when a second user input corresponding to the authentication data is input via the input device.

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