Aerosol generating device including a buffer structure

Abstract

The aerosol generating device includes a housing, a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article and disposed in a first part of the housing, a battery configured to supply electrical energy to the heater and disposed in a second part of the housing, a protection circuit board connected to the battery and disposed in the second part of the housing such that a surplus space is formed between the protection circuit board and the second part of the housing, and a buffer structure configured to buffer the protection circuit board and / or the battery and disposed in the surplus space.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to aerosol generating devices, for example, to aerosol generating devices that include a cushioning structure. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to realize atomization performance, a technology for injecting airflow into an aerosol-generating article has been developed. For example, an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article using a non-combustion method has been developed. The background art described above is held or acquired in the process of deriving this disclosure, and is not necessarily publicly known art that was disclosed to the general public prior to the filing of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating device that reduces or prevents damage to a battery and / or a protection circuit board from external impact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a housing, a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating article and disposed in a first part of the housing, a battery configured to supply electrical energy to the heater and disposed in a second part of the housing, a protection circuit board connected to the battery and disposed in the second part of the housing such that a surplus space is formed between the protection circuit board and the second part of the housing, and a cushioning structure configured to cushion the protection circuit board and / or the battery and disposed in the surplus space.

[0005] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure can be configured to reduce heat transfer from the heater to the protection circuit board and / or the battery.

[0006] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure may include a first base disposed on the second portion of the housing and a second base disposed on the first base. When viewed in a direction from the heater toward the battery, a width of the first base may be greater than a width of the second base.

[0007] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure may include a plurality of pores.

[0008] In one embodiment, the shape of any one of the plurality of pores may be different from the shape of any other one of the pores.

[0009] In one embodiment, the shape of any one of the plurality of pores may be substantially identical to the shape of any other one of the plurality of pores.

[0010] In one embodiment, the housing may further include at least one first engagement portion disposed on the second portion, and the cushioning structure may include a second engagement portion configured to engage with the first engagement portion.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second engagement portion may include a groove.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second engagement portion may include a first groove extending in a first direction and a second groove extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first engagement portion may include a protruding rib.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first engagement portion may include a first protruding rib extending in a first direction from the heater toward the battery, and a second protruding rib extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the buffer structure may be arranged to occupy substantially the entirety of the surplus space.

[0016] In one embodiment, the housing includes a wall that separates between the first portion and the second portion, and the buffer structure can be arranged to contact the wall.

[0017] In one embodiment, the buffer structure can include an elastic material.

[0018] In one embodiment, the buffer structure can be configured to have a first form in which the buffer structure is not deformed and a second form in which the buffer structure is deformed and compressed.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to one embodiment, damage to the battery and / or the protection circuit board can be reduced or prevented from external impact. According to one embodiment, the heat transmitted from the heater to the battery can be reduced. The effects of the aerosol generating device including the buffer structure according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and different effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0020] The above-described, and other aspects, features and advantages of the specific embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Diagram 3] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] It is a diagram showing an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is an exploded rear perspective view of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a battery and a protection circuit board according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device including a cushioning structure according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device including a housing in which a cushioning structure according to one embodiment is disposed. [Figure 14] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a cushioning structure according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a cushioning structure according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] The terms used in the embodiments are selected as widely used as possible while taking into consideration the functions in the embodiments of this document, but this may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, the meanings of such terms will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in this document should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of this document, rather than simply the names of the terms.

[0023] Throughout the specification, when any part "includes" any component, this does not exclude other components, but means that the other components are further included, unless otherwise specified to the contrary. The terms "unit", "module", etc. described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a semiconductor device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment.

[0026] 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes a vaporizer 14. An aerosol-generating article 2 may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0027] Components related to this embodiment are illustrated in the aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Therefore, it will be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field related to this embodiment that the aerosol generating device 1 may further include different general-purpose components in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0028] Although the aerosol generating device 1 is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 as including a heater 13, the heater 13 may be omitted if desired.

[0029] In Fig. 1, the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in a row. In addition, in Fig. 2, the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in a row. In addition, in Fig. 3, the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are illustrated as being arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generation device 1 is not limited to that shown in Figs. 1 to 3. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 may be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generation device 1.

[0030] When the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 1, the aerosol-generating device 1 can activate the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or vaporizer 14 passes through the aerosol-generating article 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0031] If necessary, the aerosol generating device 1 can heat the heater 13 even when the aerosol-generating article 2 is not inserted in the aerosol generating device 1 .

[0032] The battery 11 supplies power used for operating the aerosol generation device 1. For example, the battery 11 supplies power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 can heat, and supplies power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. The battery 11 may also supply power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, and the like installed in the aerosol generation device 1.

[0033] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generating device 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generating device 1. The control unit 12 may check the state of each component of the aerosol generating device 1 to determine whether the aerosol generating device 1 is in an operable state.

[0034] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be realized as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present embodiment may be realized in other forms of hardware.

[0035] The heater 13 is heated by power supplied from the battery 11. For example, the heater 13 may be disposed outside the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1. The heated heater 13 can thus increase the temperature of the aerosol-generating material within the aerosol-generating article.

[0036] The heater 13 may be an electrically resistive heater. For example, the heater 13 includes an electrically conductive track, and the heater 13 is heated by passing a current through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and may be any heater capable of heating to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0037] The heater 13 may be an induction heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include an electrically conductive coil for inductively heating the aerosol-generating article, and the aerosol-generating article may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heater.

[0038] For example, the heater 13 may include a tube-type heating element, a plate-type heating element, a needle-type heating element, or a rod-type heating element, and may heat the inside or outside of the aerosol-generating article 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0039] A plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the aerosol-generating article 2, or may be arranged outside the aerosol-generating article 2. Some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the aerosol-generating article 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the aerosol-generating article 2. The shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figs. 1 to 3, and may be manufactured into various shapes.

[0040] The vaporizer 14 heats the liquid-phase composition to generate an aerosol, which can be transmitted to a user through the aerosol-generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 travels along an airflow passage of the aerosol generating device 1, which airflow passage can be configured to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 to be transmitted to a user through the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0041] For example, the vaporizer 14 includes, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit, a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage unit, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generation device 1 as independent modules.

[0042] The liquid storage contains a liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco aroma component, or a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage may be manufactured so as to be detachable / attachable to the vaporizer 14, or may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0043] For example, the liquid phase composition may include water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a flavor, a flavoring, or a vitamin mixture. The flavoring may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, various fruit flavoring ingredients, and the like. The flavoring includes ingredients that can provide a user with various flavors or tastes. The vitamin mixture may include, but is not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E. The liquid phase composition may include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0044] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid phase composition of the liquid containment to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means can be a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic.

[0045] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid phase composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element may be, but is not limited to, a metal hot wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. The heating element may be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid transfer means. The heating element is heated by a current supply, and can transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0046] For example, the vaporizer 14 may be referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0047] Meanwhile, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, or a sensor for detecting insertion of an aerosol-generating article). The aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured with a structure that allows outside air to flow in and internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol-generating article 2 is inserted.

[0048] 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 may form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. The heater 13 may heat the aerosol generating device 1 in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled together.

[0049] The aerosol-generating article 2 is similar to a general combustion-type aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article 2 is divided into a first portion including an aerosol-generating material and a second portion including a filter or the like. The second portion of the aerosol-generating article 2 may also include an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second portion.

[0050] The entire first part is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part is exposed to the outside. Only a part of the first part may be inserted into the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. A user can inhale the aerosol while holding the second part in their mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated by outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is delivered to the user's mouth.

[0051] For example, outside air may be introduced through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol-generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol-generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by a user. Therefore, the amount of smoke, smoking sensation, etc. may be adjusted by the user. Outside air may be introduced into the aerosol-generating article 2 through at least one hole formed in a surface of the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0053] 4, the aerosol-generating article 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first part described above with reference to FIGS.

[0054] 4, the filter rod 22 is illustrated as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of multiple segments. For example, the filter rod 22 may include a segment for cooling the aerosol and a segment for filtering a predetermined component contained in the aerosol. The filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment that performs another function.

[0055] The diameter of the aerosol-generating article 2 may be within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length may be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, but is not limited to, the length of the tobacco rod 21 may be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 may be about 12 mm.

[0056] The aerosol-generating article 2 is wrapped in at least one wrapper 24. The wrapper 24 may have at least one hole through which outside air can flow in and internal gas can flow out. As an example, the aerosol-generating article 2 may be wrapped in one wrapper 24. As another example, the aerosol-generating article 2 may be wrapped in two or more wrappers 24 in a redundant manner. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped in wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Then, the entire aerosol-generating article 2 may be rewrapped in a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each of the segments may be wrapped in a wrapper 242, 243, and 244.

[0057] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of a common filter wrapping paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper. The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of a paper and / or an aluminum-aluminum laminated wrapping material having oil resistance.

[0058] The third wrapper 243 may be made of a hard wrapping paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 is 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2 The thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be in the range of 120 um to 130 um, preferably 125 um.

[0059] The fourth wrapper 244 may be made of a grease-resistant hard wrapping paper. For example, the fourth wrapper 244 has a basis weight of 88 g / m 2 ~96g / m 2 and preferably within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94g / m 2The thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be in the range of 120 um to 130 um, preferably 125 um.

[0060] The fifth wrapper 245 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 and preferably within 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be in the range of 64 um to 70 um, and preferably 67 um.

[0061] A predetermined material may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, examples of the predetermined material include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance, which is less susceptible to change with temperature, oxidation resistance, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, other materials than silicon may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 as long as they have the above-mentioned properties.

[0062] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol-generating article 2 from being burned. For example, if the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 13, the aerosol-generating article 2 may be burned. Specifically, if the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 21, the aerosol-generating article 2 will be burned. Even in such a case, the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-flammable substance, and therefore the aerosol-generating article 2 is prevented from being burned.

[0063] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device 1 from being contaminated by the substance generated in the aerosol-generating article 2. A liquid substance is generated in the aerosol-generating article 2 by the user's puff. For example, the aerosol generated in the aerosol-generating article 2 is cooled by outside air, generating a liquid substance (e.g., moisture, etc.). The fifth wrapper 245 wraps the aerosol-generating article 2, thereby preventing the liquid substance generated in the aerosol-generating article 2 from leaking outside the aerosol-generating article 2.

[0064] The tobacco rod 21 includes an aerosol-generating material. For example, the aerosol-generating material includes, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The tobacco rod 21 may contain other additives, such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. A flavoring liquid, such as menthol or a humectant, may be added to the tobacco rod 21 by being sprayed onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0065] The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured in a sheet or a strand. The tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from shredded tobacco, which is a tobacco sheet cut into small pieces. The tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a thermally conductive material. For example, the thermally conductive material may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 may evenly distribute the heat transferred to the tobacco rod to improve the thermal conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. The thermally conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 is heated by an induction heater and functions as a susceptor. Although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the thermally conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0066] The filter rod 22 may be an acetyl cellulose filter. Meanwhile, the shape of the filter rod 22 is not limited. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tube-type rod including a hollow inside. The filter rod 22 may be a recessed rod. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be manufactured to have a different shape.

[0067] The first segment of the filter rod 22 may be an acetyl cellulose filter. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted through the first segment, it can prevent the inner material of the tobacco rod 21 from shifting backward, and can also generate a cooling effect for the aerosol. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment may be an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0068] The length of the first segment may be within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment is 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0069] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment. The first segment may be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or tube made of the same material or a release material into the interior (e.g., hollow) of the first segment.

[0070] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol that has been cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0071] The length or diameter of the second segment may be determined in various ways depending on the shape of the aerosol-generating article 2. For example, the length of the second segment may be appropriately adopted within the range of 7 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the second segment is about 14 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0072] The second segment may be produced by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, the fragrance liquid may be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. The second segment may be produced by weaving together separate fibers to which the fragrance liquid has been applied and fibers made of the polymer. The second segment may be formed by a wound polymer sheet.

[0073] The polymer may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA) and aluminum foil.

[0074] The second segment may be formed from woven polymer fibers or wound polymer sheets, such that the second segment includes one or more longitudinally extending channels, where channel refers to a passageway through which a gas (e.g., air or aerosol) may pass.

[0075] For example, the second segment of wound polymer sheet may be formed from a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, such as between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. The total surface area of ​​the second segment is about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000mm 2 The aerosol cooling element may have a specific surface area of ​​between about 10 mm2 / mm2. 2 / mg and about 100mm 2 / mg of material.

[0076] Meanwhile, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavoring ingredient, which may be, but is not limited to, menthol. For example, the thread may be loaded with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0077] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be an acetyl cellulose filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately selected within a range of 4 mm to 20 mm. For example, the length of the third segment may be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, the third segment may be manufactured so that a flavor is generated by spraying a flavoring liquid onto the third segment. Separate fibers coated with a flavoring liquid may be inserted into the third segment. The aerosol generated in the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is delivered to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, the effect of enhancing the persistence of the flavor delivered to the user is achieved.

[0079] The filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 may perform a function of generating flavor or a function of generating aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enveloped in a coating. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment.

[0081] 5, the aerosol-generating article 3 further includes a shear plug 33. The shear plug 33 is disposed on one side of the tobacco rod 31 facing the filter rod 32. The shear plug 33 prevents the tobacco rod 31 from escaping to the outside, and can prevent aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generating device (e.g., FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0082] Filter rod 32 includes a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, first segment 321 corresponds to the first segment of filter rod 22 shown in FIG. 4, and second segment 322 corresponds to the third segment of filter rod 22 shown in FIG.

[0083] The diameter and overall length of the aerosol-generating article 3 correspond to the diameter and overall length of the aerosol-generating article 2 shown in Figure 4. For example, but not limited to, the length of the shear plug 33 may be about 7mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 about 15mm, the length of the first segment 321 about 12mm, and the length of the second segment 322 about 14mm.

[0084] The aerosol-generating article 3 is wrapped in at least one wrapper 35. The wrapper 35 may have at least one hole formed therein through which outside air can flow in or the internal gas can flow out. For example, the shear plug 33 may be wrapped in a first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped in a second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped in a third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped in a fourth wrapper 354. The entire aerosol-generating article 3 may then be repackaged in a fifth wrapper 355.

[0085] At least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, but not limited to, the perforation 36 may be formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31. The perforation 36 serves to transfer heat generated by the heater 13 shown in Figures 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0086] The second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 may perform a function of generating a flavor or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is enveloped in a coating. The capsule 34 has a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0087] The first wrapper 351 may be a metal foil such as aluminum foil bonded to a general filter wrapping paper. For example, the total thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be within a range of 45 um to 55 um, and preferably 50.3 um. The thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be within a range of 6 um to 7 um, and preferably 6.3 um. The basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55g / m 2 and preferably 53 g / m 2 may be also possible.

[0088] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 are made of a common filter wrapping paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be a porous wrapping paper or a non-porous wrapping paper.

[0089] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be in the range of 70 um to 80 um, and preferably 78 um. The basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2 and preferably 23.5 g / m 2 may be also possible.

[0090] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. The thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be in the range of 60 um to 70 um, and preferably 68 um. The basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25g / m 2and preferably within the range of 21 g / m 2 may be also possible.

[0091] The fourth wrapper 354 may be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, PLA laminated paper means a triple layer of paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and a paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be in the range of 100 um to 120 um, and preferably 110 um. The basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 is 80 g / m 2 ~100g / m 2 and preferably 88 g / m 2 may be also possible.

[0092] The fifth wrapper 355 may be made of a sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) refers to a paper that is specially manufactured to have improved tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc., compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 is 57 g / m 2 ~63g / m 2 and preferably within 60 g / m 2 The thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be in the range of 64 um to 70 um, and preferably 67 um.

[0093] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 355. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance without oxidation, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency, and electrical insulation. However, any substance other than silicon having the above-mentioned properties may be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without any restrictions.

[0094] The shear plug 33 may be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the shear plug 33 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to the cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug 33 may be about 5.0. The cross section of the filaments constituting the shear plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shear plug 33 may be within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0095] The shear plug 33 may include at least one channel. The cross-section of the channel may be manufactured in a variety of ways.

[0096] The tobacco rod 31 corresponds to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to Figure 4. Therefore, in the following, a detailed description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted.

[0097] The first segment 321 may be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tube-shaped structure having a hollow interior. The first segment 321 may be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono-denier and total denier of the first segment 321 may be the same as the mono-denier and total denier of the shear plug 33.

[0098] The second segment 322 may be made of acetyl cellulose. The mono-denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, and preferably within the range of 8.0 to 10.0. More preferably, the mono-denier of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be 9.0. The cross section of the filaments of the second segment 322 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the second segment 322 may be within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, and preferably 25,000.

[0099] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to another embodiment.

[0100] 6, the aerosol generating device 400 includes a control unit 410, a detection unit 420, an output unit 430, a battery 440, a heater 450, a user input unit 460, a memory 470, and a communication unit 480. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device 400 is not limited to that shown in Fig. 6. That is, a person having ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment can understand that some of the components shown in Fig. 6 may be omitted or new components may be added depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 400.

[0101] The detection unit 420 detects the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the state around the aerosol generating device 400, and transmits the detected information to the control unit 410. Based on the detected information, the control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 to perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 450, restricting smoking, determining whether an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) is inserted, displaying notifications, etc.

[0102] The detection unit 420 includes at least one of a temperature sensor 422, an insertion detection sensor 424, and a puff sensor 426, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] The temperature sensor 422 detects the temperature to which the heater 450 (or the aerosol generating substance) heats. The aerosol generating device 400 may include a separate temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heater 450, or the heater 450 itself may function as a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor 422 may be disposed near the battery 440 so as to monitor the temperature of the battery 440.

[0104] The insertion detection sensor 424 can detect the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 424 can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of an aerosol-generating article.

[0105] The puff sensor 426 can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or channel, for example, the puff sensor 426 may detect a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0106] The detection unit 420 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, an air pressure sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor, in addition to the above-mentioned sensors 422 to 426. The function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by a person skilled in the art from its name, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The output unit 430 outputs and provides information regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 400 to a user. The output unit 430 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a display unit 432, a haptic unit 434, and an audio output unit 436. When the display unit 432 and the touchpad are layered to form a touch screen, the display unit 432 may be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0108] The display unit 432 may visually provide information about the aerosol generating device 400 to a user. For example, the information about the aerosol generating device 400 may mean various information such as a charging / discharging state of the battery 440 of the aerosol generating device 400, a preheating state of the heater 450, an insertion / removal state of an aerosol generating article, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generating device 400 is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal article), and the display unit 432 may output the information to the outside. The display unit 432 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. The display unit 432 may be a state of an LED light emitting element.

[0109] The haptic unit 434 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and provide a user with tactile information about the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the haptic unit 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0110] The acoustic output unit 436 can audibly provide the user with information regarding the aerosol generating device 400. For example, the acoustic output unit 436 can convert an electric signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0111] The battery 440 provides power used for the aerosol generating device 400 to operate. The battery 440 may provide power to enable the heater 450 to heat. The battery 440 provides power required for the operation of different components (e.g., the detection unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480) provided in the aerosol generating device 400. The battery 440 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 440 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0112] The heater 450 heats the aerosol-generating material by receiving power from the battery 440. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the aerosol-generating device 400 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to the heater 450. When the aerosol-generating device 400 generates the aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol-generating device 400 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power of the battery 440 into an AC power.

[0113] The control unit 410, the detection unit 420, the output unit 430, the user input unit 460, the memory 470, and the communication unit 480 can function by receiving power from the battery 440. Although not shown in Fig. 6, the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to each component.

[0114] In one embodiment, the heater 450 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. The heater 450 may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metallic hot wire, a metallic hot plate having an electrically conductive track disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc.

[0115] In one embodiment, heater 450 may be an inductively heated heater, for example, heater 450 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

[0116] In one embodiment, heater 450 may include multiple heaters. For example, heater 450 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating article and a second heater for heating the liquid phase.

[0117] The user input unit 460 receives information input by a user and outputs information to a user. For example, the user input unit 460 may be, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact type capacitance type, pressure type resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral type tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 400 may further include a connection interface such as a universal serial bus (USB) interface, etc., and may be connected to another external device through the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 440.

[0118] The memory 470 may store data processed by the control unit 410 and data to be processed as hardware for storing various data processed in the aerosol generating device 400. The memory 470 may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card-type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), a random access memory (RAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The memory 470 may store the operation time of the aerosol generating device 400, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and data on the smoking pattern of the user.

[0119] The communication unit 480 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 480 includes a short-range communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484.

[0120] The short-range wireless communication unit 482 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth (registered trademark) Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee (registered trademark) communication unit, an IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0121] The wireless communication unit 484 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 484 may identify and authenticate the aerosol generating device 400 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)).

[0122] The control unit 410 controls the overall operation of the aerosol generating device 400. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may include at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of multiple logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. It will be understood by a person skilled in the art to which the present embodiment pertains that the present invention may be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0123] The control unit 410 can control the temperature of the heater 450 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 440 to the heater 450. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. As a different example, a heating direct circuit may control the power supply to the heater 450 in response to a control command from the control unit 410.

[0124] The control unit 410 analyzes the result detected by the detection unit 420 and controls the process to be executed thereafter. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supplied to the heater 450 so as to start or end the operation of the heater 450 based on the result detected by the detection unit 420. For another example, the control unit 410 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 450 and the time for which the power is supplied based on the result detected by the detection unit 420 so that the heater 450 is heated to a predetermined temperature or maintained at an appropriate temperature.

[0125] The control unit 410 can control the output unit 430 based on the result detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number, the control unit 410 can notify the user via at least one of the display unit 432, the haptic unit 434, and the audio output unit 436 that the aerosol generating device 400 will soon be shut down.

[0126] In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may control the time and / or amount of power supplied to the heater 450 depending on the state of the aerosol-generating article detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the aerosol-generating article is in an overly humid state, the control unit 410 may control the time of power supply to the induction coil to increase the pre-heating time compared to when the aerosol-generating article is in a normal state.

[0127] An embodiment may also be realized in the form of a recording medium including computer executable instructions such as a program module executed by a computer. A computer readable recording medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, and both separate and non-separate media. A computer readable recording medium may include both computer storage media and communication media. A computer storage medium may include both volatile and non-volatile, separate and non-separate media embodied in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. A communication medium typically includes computer readable instructions, data structures, other data in a modulated data signal such as a program module, or other transmission mechanism, and includes any information delivery medium.

[0128] 7 and 8 are front and rear perspective views of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment.

[0129] 7 and 8, an aerosol generating device 500 includes a housing 510. The housing 510 includes a first housing surface 510A (e.g., a front surface of the housing), a second housing surface 510B (e.g., a rear surface of the housing) opposite the first housing surface 510A, and at least one side housing surface 510C between the first housing surface 510A and the second housing surface 510B.

[0130] In one embodiment, the housing 510 includes multiple housing parts. For example, the housing 510 includes a first housing part 511A and a second housing part 511B. The first housing part 511A substantially forms the first housing surface 510A and the second housing surface 510B. The first housing part 511A may form at least a portion of the area of ​​the side housing surface 510C, and the second housing part 511B may form the remaining area of ​​the side housing surface 510C. In one embodiment, the first housing part 511A and the second housing part 511B may be detachably coupled to each other.

[0131] In one embodiment, the housing 510 may include an insertion opening (not shown) configured to permit insertion of an aerosol-generating article (not shown). The insertion opening may be located on the first housing surface 510A.

[0132] In one embodiment, the housing 510 includes a connection terminal 512. The connection terminal 512 may include a connector through which the aerosol generating device 500 may be physically connected to an external electronic device. For example, the connection terminal 512 may include at least one or a combination of an HDMI (registered trademark) connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0133] Fig. 9 is a rear perspective view of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Fig. 10 is an exploded rear perspective view of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a battery and a protection circuit board according to one embodiment.

[0134] 9 to 11, an aerosol generating device 500 includes a housing 510. The housing 510 includes a first portion A1. The first portion A1 includes a portion adjacent to a first housing surface 510A of the housing 510. The housing 510 includes a second portion A2. The second portion A2 may be at least partially different from the first portion A1. The second portion A2 may include a portion adjacent to a second housing surface 510B of the housing.

[0135] In one embodiment, the housing 510 includes a wall A3. The wall A3 may be configured to separate the first portion A1 and the second portion A2. The wall A3 may extend from the inner surface 510D of the housing 510 in a normal direction to the inner surface 510D of the housing 510. The wall A3 may extend across the inner surface 510D in a direction (e.g., width direction of the housing 510) intersecting the normal direction (e.g., thickness direction of the housing 510) of the inner surface 510D of the housing 510. The extension direction of the wall A3 may intersect (e.g., perpendicular to) a direction from the first housing surface 510A to the second housing surface 510B of the housing 510 (e.g., longitudinal direction of the housing 510).

[0136] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a battery 540. For example, the battery 540 may include a pouch-type battery. The battery 540 may be disposed in the second portion A2 of the housing 510.

[0137] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a protection circuit board 545. The protection circuit board 545 can reduce or prevent the battery 540 from exploding and / or being damaged in an abnormal state of the battery 540 (for example, thermal runaway). The protection circuit board 545 surrounds the battery 540. The protection circuit board 545 may be arranged on the battery 540 so as to be suitable for the shape of the battery 540 (for example, a stepped shape). The arrangement structure of the protection circuit board 545 may form a vacant space 546. When the battery 540 is arranged in the housing 510, if an external impact is applied to the housing 510, the vacant space 546 may cause the battery 540 and / or the protection circuit board 545 to be damaged.

[0138] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a heater 550. The heater 550 may be arranged in the first part A1 of the housing 510.

[0139] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a heat insulator 555. The heat insulator 555 may be configured to insulate the heater 550. The heat insulator 555 may be arranged in the first part A1 of the housing 510. The heat insulator 555 surrounds the heater 550.

[0140] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a buffer structure 590. The buffer structure 590 may be configured to buffer the battery 540 and / or the protection circuit board 545. The buffer structure 590 may be arranged in the vacant space 546 between the inner surface 510D of the second part A2 of the housing 510 and the protection circuit board 545. The buffer structure 590 is configured to reduce or prevent the impact applied to the battery 540 and the protection circuit board 545, for example, when an external impact (for example, vibration) is applied to the aerosol generating device 500.

[0141] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 can be configured to elastically deform. For example, the cushioning structure 590 may transition between a first undeformed configuration (e.g., an initial configuration) and a second deformed and compressed configuration (e.g., a compressed configuration).

[0142] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 may be compressed to about 95% or less, about 90% or less, about 85% or less, about 80% or less, about 75% or less, about 70% or less, about 60% or less, or about 50% or less of its initial configuration.

[0143] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 may be smoothly compressed. For example, the cushioning structure 590 may be compressed with a defined elastic profile up to just before the permanent deformation mode. The elastic profile of the cushioning structure 590 may be determined according to the elastic modulus of the material forming the cushioning structure 590.

[0144] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 includes an elastic material, such as at least one of silicone, thermoset polyurethane (TPU), thermoset elastomer (TPE), or rubber, or a combination thereof.

[0145] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device including a cushioning structure according to an embodiment, Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device including a housing in which the cushioning structure according to an embodiment is disposed, and Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment.

[0146] 12 to 14, the aerosol generating device 500 includes a buffer structure 590. The buffer structure 590 may be disposed at a suitable location of the second part A2 and the wall A3 of the housing 510. The buffer structure 590 is configured to reduce thermal energy transferred from the heater 550 disposed in the first part A1 of the housing 510 toward the battery 550 disposed in the second part A2 of the housing 510. The buffer structure 590 may be configured to thermally insulate the heater 550.

[0147] In one embodiment, the buffer structure 590 can be disposed in the clearance space CS (e.g., the open space 546 in FIG. 11 ). The clearance space CS can be defined as the space between the protection circuit board 545 and the wall A3 and / or the space between the protection circuit board 545 and the inner surface 510D of the housing 510. The buffer structure 590 can occupy substantially the entirety of the clearance space CS.

[0148] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 can be disposed on the second portion A2 of the housing 510. The cushioning structure 590 may be disposed on an inner surface 510D of the second portion A2. The cushioning structure 590 may contact the inner surface 510D. The cushioning structure 590 may reduce displacement of the battery 540 and / or the protection circuit board 545 toward the inner surface 510D.

[0149] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 can contact the wall A3. The cushioning structure 590 can reduce the displacement of the battery 540 and / or the protection circuit board 545 toward the wall A3.

[0150] In one embodiment, the cushioning structure 590 is configured to engage with the housing 510. When the cushioning structure 590 engages with the housing 510, the cushioning structure 590 exhibits rigidity.

[0151] In one embodiment, the housing 510 includes a first engagement portion P. The first engagement portion P may be configured to engage with the cushioning structure 590.

[0152] In one embodiment, the first engagement portion P includes a first protrusion P1. The first protrusion P1 may protrude from the wall A3 to the second portion A2. The first protrusion P1 may be disposed on the inner surface 510D.

[0153] In one embodiment, the first protruding portion P1 includes a first protruding rib P11. The first protruding rib P11 may protrude in the longitudinal direction of the housing 510 (i.e., in the direction from the heater 550 disposed in the first portion A1 toward the battery 540 disposed in the second portion A2).

[0154] In one embodiment, the first protruding portion P1 includes a second protruding rib P12. The second protruding rib P12 may protrude from the first protruding rib P11 in a direction intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the protruding direction of the first protruding rib P11. The second protruding rib P12 may extend in the width direction of the housing 510. The second protruding rib P12 may extend in a different direction (e.g., the opposite direction) to the first protruding rib P11.

[0155] In one embodiment, the first engagement portion P includes a second protrusion P2. The second protrusion P2 may be spaced apart from the first protrusion P1 in the width direction of the housing 510. The second protrusion P2 may protrude from the wall A3 to the second portion A2. The second protrusion P2 may be disposed on the inner surface 510D.

[0156] In one embodiment, the second protruding portion P2 includes a third protruding rib P21. The third protruding rib P21 may protrude in a longitudinal direction of the housing 510 from the heater 550 disposed in the first portion A1 toward the battery 540 disposed in the second portion A2. The third protruding rib P21 is substantially parallel to the first protruding rib P11.

[0157] In one embodiment, the second protruding portion P2 includes a fourth protruding rib P22. The fourth protruding rib P22 may protrude from the third protruding rib P21 in a direction intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the protruding direction of the third protruding rib P21. The fourth protruding rib P22 may extend in the width direction of the housing 510. The fourth protruding rib P22 may extend in a direction different from that of the third protruding rib P21. The fourth protruding rib P22 may be disposed substantially on the same line as the second protruding rib P12. The fourth protruding rib P22 may be spaced apart from the second protruding rib P12.

[0158] In one embodiment, the buffer structure 590 may form a stepped shape. For example, the buffer structure 590 includes a first base 591 and a second base 592. The first base 591 may be disposed on the inner surface 510D within the surplus space CS. The first base 591 may contact the wall A3. The first base 591 may contact a portion of the protection circuit board 545. The second base 592 may be disposed on the first base 591 within the surplus space CS. The second base 592 may be seamlessly connected to the first base 591. The second base 592 may contact the wall A3. The second base 592 may contact another portion of the protection circuit board 545. When viewed from the direction from the heater 550 toward the battery 540, the width of the second base 592 is smaller than the width of the first base 591.

[0159] Figures 15 and 16 are front and rear perspective views of a cushioning structure according to an embodiment.

[0160] 15 and 16, the cushioning structure 590 includes a first base 591 and a second base 592.

[0161] In one embodiment, the first base 591 includes a plurality of pores (e.g., a first pore B1, a second pore B2, a third pore B3, and a fourth pore B4). The plurality of pores (e.g., the first pore B1, the second pore B2, the third pore B3, and the fourth pore B4) can penetrate the first base 591. The plurality of pores B1, B2, B3, and B4 allow air to flow through the plurality of pores (e.g., the first pore B1, the second pore B2, the third pore B3, and the fourth pore B4). The plurality of pores (e.g., the first pore B1, the second pore B2, the third pore B3, and the fourth pore B4) allow the cushioning structure 590 to be compressed smoothly.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first base 591 includes pores of different shapes. For example, the first pore B1 and the second pore B2 may each include a pore with a substantially triangular cross section. The third pore B3 may include a pore with a substantially trapezoidal cross section. The fourth pore B4 may include a pore with a substantially rectangular or square cross section.

[0163] In one embodiment, the first base 591 includes pores of substantially the same shape. For example, the first base 591 includes a plurality of second pores B2 of substantially triangular cross-section. The first base 591 may include a third pore B3 of substantially trapezoidal cross-section.

[0164] In one embodiment, the first base 591 includes a recess 593. The recess 593 is formed in a surface (e.g., a lower surface) of the first base 591 opposite a surface (e.g., a top surface) of the first base 591 on which the second base 592 is disposed. The region of the first base 591 in which the recess 593 is formed may include a first pore B1 and a plurality of second pores B2.

[0165] In one embodiment, the first base 591 includes a second engagement portion R. The second engagement portion R may be configured to engage with the first engagement portion P of FIG.

[0166] In one embodiment, the second engagement portion R includes a first recess R1. The first recess R1 may be formed in a surface (e.g., a lower surface) of the first base 591 opposite to a surface (e.g., an upper surface) of the first base 591 on which the second base 592 is disposed.

[0167] In one embodiment, the first recess R1 includes a first groove R11. The first groove R11 may be configured to align with the first protruding rib P11 of Fig. 13. The first groove R11 may extend from one side surface (e.g., the front side surface) of the first base 591 to the opposite side surface (e.g., the rear side surface).

[0168] In one embodiment, the first recess R1 includes a second groove R12. The second groove R12 may be configured to align with the second protruding rib P12 of FIG. 13. The second groove R12 may extend from the first groove R11 in a direction intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the extension direction of the first groove R11. The second groove R12 may extend in another direction from an end of the first groove R11.

[0169] In one embodiment, the second engagement portion R includes a second recess R2. The second recess R2 may be formed on a surface (e.g., a lower surface) of the first base 591 opposite to a surface (e.g., an upper surface) of the first base 591 on which the second base 592 is disposed. The second recess R2 may be spaced apart from the first recess R1.

[0170] In one embodiment, the second recess R2 includes a third groove R21. The third groove R21 may be configured to align with the third protruding rib P21 of FIG. 13. The third groove R21 may extend from one side surface (e.g., the front side surface) of the first base 591 to the opposite side surface (e.g., the rear side surface). The third groove R21 may be substantially parallel to the first groove R11.

[0171] In one embodiment, the second recess R2 includes a fourth groove R22. The fourth groove R22 may be configured to align with the fourth protruding rib P22 of FIG. 13. The fourth groove R22 may extend from the third groove R21 in a direction intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the extension direction of the third groove R21. The fourth groove R22 may extend in another direction from the end of the third groove R21. The fourth groove R22 may be disposed substantially on the same line as the second groove R12. The fourth groove R22 may be spaced apart from the second groove R12.

[0172] The features and aspects of any embodiment described above can be combined with the features and aspects of any other embodiment unless this results in an obvious technical conflict.

Claims

1. Housing and a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article and disposed in the first portion of the housing; a battery disposed in the second portion of the housing and configured to provide electrical energy to the heater; a protection circuit board connected to the battery, the protection circuit board being disposed in the second portion of the housing, with a clearance space being formed between the protection circuit board and the second portion of the housing; a buffer structure disposed in the surplus space and configured to buffer the protection circuit board and / or the battery; Including, The buffer structure includes: a first base disposed on an inner surface of the housing and in contact with a portion of the protection circuit board; a second base disposed on the first base and in contact with another portion of the protection circuit board; An aerosol generating device comprising:

2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the cushioning structure is configured to reduce heat transferred from the heater to the protection circuit board and / or the battery.

3. An aerosol generating device as described in claim 1, wherein when viewed from a direction from the heater toward the battery, the width of the first base is larger than the width of the second base.

4. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the cushioning structure comprises a plurality of pores.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the shape of any one of the plurality of pores is different from the shape of any other one of the plurality of pores.

6. 5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the shape of any one of the plurality of pores is substantially identical to the shape of any other one of the plurality of pores.

7. A housing, a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article and disposed in the first portion of the housing; a battery disposed in the second portion of the housing and configured to provide electrical energy to the heater; a protection circuit board connected to the battery, the protection circuit board being disposed in the second portion of the housing, with a clearance space being formed between the protection circuit board and the second portion of the housing; a buffer structure disposed in the surplus space and configured to buffer the protection circuit board and / or the battery; Including, The housing further includes at least one first engagement portion disposed on the second portion; The aerosol generating device, wherein the cushioning structure includes a second engagement portion configured to engage with the first engagement portion.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7 , wherein the second engagement portion includes a groove.

9. The second engagement portion is A first groove extending in a first direction; a second groove extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 7, comprising:

10. The aerosol generating device of claim 7 , wherein the first engagement portion includes a protruding rib.

11. The first engagement portion is a first protruding rib extending in a first direction from the heater toward the battery; a second protruding rib extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction; 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 7, comprising:

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the buffer structure is disposed so as to occupy substantially the entirety of the surplus space.

13. the housing includes a wall separating the first portion from the second portion; The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the cushioning structure is positioned in contact with the wall.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the buffer structure comprises an elastic material.

15. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the cushioning structure is configured to have a first configuration in which the cushioning structure is undeformed and a second configuration in which the cushioning structure is deformed and compressed.

Images