Aerosol generating device and system

Abstract

The aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating article including an amorphous solid substance, an aerosol generating device including a cavity configured to receive the aerosol generating article, a receiver configured to receive liquid substance from the aerosol generating article, and a heating element configured to heat the amorphous solid substance to a first temperature range at which the amorphous solid substance undergoes a phase change to a liquid substance, and to heat the liquid substance to a second temperature range different from the first temperature range at which the liquid substance undergoes a phase change to an aerosol.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Techniques for introducing an air flow into an aerosol generating article to achieve atomization performance have been developed. For example, an aerosol generating device of a type that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating article in a non-combustion manner has been developed. The above-described background art is something held or acquired in the derivation process of the present disclosure and is not necessarily known art publicly disclosed to the general public before the filing of the present disclosure.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure can provide an aerosol generating device and system that reduce leakage of a substance in a liquid state.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The aerosol generation system may include an aerosol generating article containing an amorphous solid substance, a cavity configured to receive the aerosol generating article, a receptor configured to receive a liquid substance from the aerosol generating article, and a heating body configured to heat the amorphous solid substance in a first temperature range in which the amorphous solid substance undergoes a phase change into a liquid substance, and heat the liquid substance in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range in which the liquid substance undergoes a phase change into an aerosol.

[0005] The heating body may include a first surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heating body configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance.

[0006] The heating element further includes a second surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heating element that is arranged to face the cavity opposite to the first SPR heating element and is configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance. The first SPR heating element is configured to heat the aerosol generating article in the first temperature range, and the second SPR heating element may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article in the second temperature range.

[0007] The first SPR heating element is configured to start heating at a first time, and the second SPR heating element may be configured to start heating at a second time different from the first time.

[0008] The receptor may be disposed between the cavity and the second SPR heating element.

[0009] When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the first SPR heating element may be configured to contact the aerosol generating article.

[0010] The aerosol generating device may further include a first light source configured to emit light toward the first SPR heating element and a second light source configured to emit light toward the second SPR heating element.

[0011] The heating element includes a conductive coil surrounding the cavity, and the aerosol generating article may include a susceptor configured to couple with the conductive coil.

[0012] The heating element is configured to start heating at a first time to heat the aerosol generating article in the first temperature range, and may be configured to start heating at a second time different from the first time to heat the aerosol generating article in the second temperature range.

[0013] The receptor may be disposed between the conductive coil and the cavity.

[0014] The heating element may include a first electrical resistance heating element.

[0015] The heating element further includes a second electrically resistive heating element arranged to oppose the first electrically resistive heating element with respect to the cavity. The first electrically resistive heating element is configured to heat the aerosol generating article in the first temperature range, and the second electrically resistive heating element may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article in the second temperature range.

[0016] The first electrically resistive heating element is configured to start heating at a first time, and the second electrically resistive heating element may be configured to start heating at a second time different from the first time.

[0017] The receptor may be arranged between the cavity and the second electrically resistive heating element.

[0018] When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the first electrically resistive heating element may be configured to contact the aerosol generating article.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to one embodiment, leakage of the substance in the liquid state can be reduced in the aerosol generating device. The effects of the aerosol generating device and system according to one embodiment are not limited to those described above, and other effects not described will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0020] The foregoing other aspects, features, and advantages of the example of the specific embodiment 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

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

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Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0022] The terms used in the embodiments are generally selected as widely as possible currently while considering the functions in the embodiments. However, this may vary depending on the intentions or precedents of those skilled in the art, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Also, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, the meaning will be described in detail in the explanatory part of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely the names of the terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0023] Throughout the specification, when any part states that any component "includes" something, this means that it further includes other components, rather than excluding other components, unless there is a contrary statement. Also, terms such as "~ part" and "~ module" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this can be implemented by hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0024] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can easily implement them. However, the present invention can be realized in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described here.

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0026] FIGS. 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example in which an aerosol-generating article is inserted into an aerosol generator.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generator 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generator 1 further includes an atomizer 14. Also, an aerosol-generating article 2 (for example, a roll-up cigarette) may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 1.

[0028] In the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the components related to this embodiment are shown. Therefore, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will understand that the aerosol generator 1 may further include different general-purpose components in addition to the components shown in FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0029] Also, although FIGS. 2 and 3 show the aerosol generator 1 as including the heater 13, the heater 13 may be omitted as necessary.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 2 shows the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 arranged in a row. Also, FIG. 3 shows the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. In other words, depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1, the arrangements of the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14 can be changed.

[0031] When the aerosol generating article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol generator 1 can operate the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generated by the heater 13 and / or the vaporizer 14 passes through the aerosol generating article 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0032] Optionally, even when the aerosol generating article 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol generator 1 may heat the heater 13.

[0033] The battery 11 supplies the power used for the operation of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 11 may supply power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 can be heated, or may supply the power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. Also, the battery 11 may supply the power necessary for the operation of a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator 1.

[0034] The control unit 12 generally controls the operation of the aerosol generator 1. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also the operations of other components included in the aerosol generator 1. Further, the control unit 12 may check the state of each component of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operable state.

[0035] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be realized as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by this microprocessor. Also, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs can understand that it can also be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0036] The heater 13 can be heated by the electric power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the heater 13 may be disposed outside the aerosol generating article. Accordingly, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the aerosol generating article.

[0037] The heater 13 can be an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 may include a conductive track, and the heater 13 may be heated when an electric current flows through the conductive track. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above-described example, and any heater that can heat to a desired temperature can be applicable without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generator 1 or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0038] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating type heater. Specifically, the heater 13 may include a conductive coil for heating the aerosol generating article by an induction heating method, and the aerosol generating article may include a susceptor that can be heated by the induction heating type heater.

[0039] 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 according to the shape of the heating element.

[0040] Also, 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 into the aerosol generating article 2, or may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2. Also, some of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged so as to be inserted into the aerosol generating article 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2. Also, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and may be manufactured in various shapes.

[0041] The vaporizer 14 can heat the liquid-phase composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the aerosol generating article 2. In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 can move along the air flow path of the aerosol generating device 1, and the air flow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 14 is transmitted to the user through the aerosol generating article.

[0042] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage part (for example, a reservoir), a liquid transfer means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage part, the liquid transfer means, and the heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0043] The liquid storage part may store the liquid-phase composition. For example, the liquid-phase composition may be a liquid containing a tobacco-containing substance including a volatile tobacco flavor component, or may be a liquid containing a non-tobacco substance. The liquid storage part may be manufactured so as to be detachable / attachable to the vaporizer 14, or may be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0044] For example, the liquid-phase composition may contain water, a solvent, ethanol, a plant extract, a fragrance, a flavoring agent, or a vitamin mixture. The fragrance may include, but is not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and aroma components of various fruits. The flavoring agent may include components that can provide various flavors or tastes to the user. The vitamin mixture may be a mixture of at least one of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin E, but is not limited thereto. Further, the liquid-phase composition may contain an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0045] The liquid transfer means can transfer the liquid-phase composition in the liquid storage part to the heating element. For example, the liquid transfer means may be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, or porous ceramic, but is not limited thereto.

[0046] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid-phase composition transferred by the liquid transfer means. For example, the heating element includes, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc. Further, 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 current supply, transfers heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, and can heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0047] For example, the vaporizer 14 is referred to as, but is not limited to, a cartomizer or an atomizer.

[0048] On the one hand, in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a general configuration. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Further, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, an aerosol article insertion detection sensor, etc.). Further, the aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured in a structure that allows outside air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol article 2 is inserted.

[0049] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 can also form a system together with another cradle. For example, the cradle may be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Or, the heater 13 may be heated in a state where the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled.

[0050] The aerosol article 2 may be similar to a general combustion-type cigarette. For example, the aerosol article 2 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol product substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Or, the second part of the aerosol article 2 may also contain an aerosol product substance. For example, an aerosol product substance made in the form of granules or capsules may be inserted into the second part.

[0051] Inside the aerosol generating device 1, the entire first part may be inserted, and the second part may be exposed to the outside. Or, only a part of the first part may be inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, or the entire first part and a part of the second part may be inserted. The user can inhale the aerosol with the second part held in the mouth. Here, the aerosol is generated by the outside air passing through the first part, and the generated aerosol is transmitted to the user's mouth through the second part.

[0052] As an example, outside air can flow into the aerosol generator 1 through at least one air passage formed therein. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generator 1 and / or the size of the air passage may be adjusted by the user. Therefore, the amount of smoke, the smoking feeling, etc. may be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air may flow into the aerosol generating article 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 2 and into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0053] Hereinafter, an example of the aerosol generating article 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0054] FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of aerosol generating articles.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 4, the aerosol generating article 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the aforementioned first part includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second part includes the filter rod 22.

[0056] In FIG. 4, the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but is not limited thereto. In other words, the filter rod 22 may be composed of a plurality of 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. Further, if necessary, the filter rod 22 may further include at least one segment for performing other functions.

[0057] 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, 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, but is not limited thereto.

[0058] The aerosol generating article 2 can be wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole can be formed in the wrapper 24 for outside air to flow in or the internal gas to flow out. As an example, the aerosol generating article 2 may be wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the aerosol generating article 2 may be repeatedly wrapped by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244. And the whole aerosol generating article 2 may be re-wrapped by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, 244.

[0059] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of common filter paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous or non-porous paper. Also, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum laminated paper packaging materials.

[0060] The third wrapper 243 can be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be included in the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably may be included in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably may be 125 μm.

[0061] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be included in the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably may be included in the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2It may be included within the range. Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably may be 125 μm.

[0062] The fifth wrapper 245 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be included within the range of 57 g / m 2 ~63 g / m 2 and preferably may be 60 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 245 may be included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably may be 67 μm.

[0063] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, as an example of the predetermined substance, silicon may be applicable, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, as long as it is a substance having the above-described properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0064] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the development of combustion of the aerosol generating article 2. For example, when the tobacco rod 21 is heated by the heater 13, the aerosol generating article 2 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 21, the aerosol generating article 2 can burn. Even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the development of combustion of the aerosol generating article 2 can be prevented.

[0065] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the aerosol generating device (e.g., the holder) from being contaminated by the substances generated by the aerosol generating article 2. Depending on the user's puff, a liquid substance may be generated within the aerosol generating article 2. For example, the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 2 may be cooled by the outside air, whereby a liquid substance (e.g., moisture, etc.) may be generated. By wrapping the aerosol generating article 2 with the fifth wrapper 245, it is possible to prevent the liquid substance generated within the aerosol generating article 2 from leaking outside the aerosol generating article 2.

[0066] The tobacco rod 21 contains an aerosol generating substance. For example, the aerosol generating substance may include, 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. Further, the tobacco rod 21 may contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Also, 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.

[0067] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from a sheet or a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 21 may be manufactured from cut tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Further, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat-conductive material. For example, the heat-conductive material may be a metal foil such as an aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat-conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can evenly disperse the heat transmitted to the tobacco rod 21 and improve the heat conductivity applied to the tobacco rod, thereby improving the taste of the tobacco. Also, the heat-conductive material surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor that is heated by an induction heater. Here, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 may further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conductive material surrounding the outside.

[0068] The filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. On the other hand, there is no limitation on the shape of the filter rod 22. For example, the filter rod 22 may be a cylindrical rod or a tube rod including a hollow inside. Also, 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 in a different shape.

[0069] The first segment of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure including a hollow inside. When the heater 13 is inserted by the first segment, it is also possible to prevent the phenomenon that the internal substance of the tobacco rod 21 shifts backward, and a cooling effect of the aerosol may also occur. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment adopts an appropriate diameter within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0070] The length of the first segment is preferably within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited thereto. Preferably, the length of the first segment can be 10 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0071] The hardness of the first segment can be adjusted by regulating the content of the plasticizer during the production of the first segment. Also, the first segment may be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube made of the same or a release material inside (for example, hollow).

[0072] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Accordingly, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0073] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined in various ways according to the form 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 can be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0074] The second segment can be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring liquid may be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment may be manufactured by weaving together fibers made of a polymer and separately provided fibers coated with a flavoring liquid. Alternatively, the second segment may be formed by a wound polymer sheet.

[0075] For example, 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.

[0076] The second segment is formed by woven polymer fibers or wound polymer sheets, and the second segment may include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which gas (e.g., air or aerosol) passes.

[0077] For example, the second segment made of a wound polymer sheet may be formed of a material having a thickness between about 5 μm and about 300 μm, for example, between about 10 μm and about 250 μm. Also, the total surface area of the second segment may be between about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element may be formed of a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg.

[0078] On the other hand, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile fragrance component. Here, the volatile fragrance component may be menthol, but is not limited thereto. For example, the thread may be filled with a sufficient amount of menthol to provide 1.5 mg or more of menthol to the second segment.

[0079] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment may be appropriately adopted within the 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.

[0080] In the process of manufacturing the third segment, it may be manufactured such that a flavor is generated by injecting a flavoring liquid into the third segment. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with the flavoring liquid may be inserted into the interior of the third segment. The aerosol generated by the tobacco rod 21 is cooled by passing through the second segment of the filter rod 22, and the cooled aerosol is transmitted to the user through the third segment. Therefore, when a flavoring element is added to the third segment, an effect that the persistence of the flavor transmitted to the user is enhanced may occur.

[0081] Further, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can perform a function of generating a flavor and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 23 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped with a film. The capsule 23 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, the aerosol-generating article 3 may further include a shear plug 33. The shear plug 33 may be disposed on one side of the tobacco rod 31 facing the filter rod 32. The shear plug 33 can prevent the tobacco rod 31 from detaching externally and can prevent the aerosol liquefied from the tobacco rod 31 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol-generating device (FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0083] The filter rod 32 may include a first segment 321 and a second segment 322. Here, the first segment 321 can correspond to the first segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4, and the second segment 322 can correspond to the third segment of the filter rod 22 in FIG. 4.

[0084] The diameter and overall length of the aerosol-generating article 3 may correspond to those of the aerosol-generating article 2 in FIG. 4. For example, the length of the shear plug 33 may be about 7 mm, the length of the tobacco rod 31 may be about 15 mm, the length of the first segment 321 may be about 12 mm, and the length of the second segment 322 may be about 14 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0085] The aerosol-generating article 3 may be wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. At least one hole may be formed in the wrapper 35 to allow outside air to flow in or internal gas to flow out. For example, the shear plug 33 may be wrapped by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 may be wrapped by the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 may be wrapped by the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 may be wrapped by the fourth wrapper 354. Then, the entire aerosol-generating article 3 may be re-wrapped by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0086] Also, at least one perforation 36 may be formed in the fifth wrapper 355. For example, the perforation 36 is formed in the region surrounding the tobacco rod 31, but is not limited thereto. The perforation 36 can serve to transfer the heat generated by the heater 13 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to the inside of the tobacco rod 31.

[0087] Also, the second segment 322 may contain at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can perform a function of generating a fragrance and can also perform a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 may have a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is encapsulated by a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0088] The first wrapper 351 can be a general filter paper roll with a metal foil such as aluminum foil bonded thereto. For example, the overall thickness of the first wrapper 351 may be included within the range of 45 μm to 55 μm, and preferably may be 50.3 μm. Also, the thickness of the metal foil of the first wrapper 351 may be included within the range of 6 μm to 7 μm, and preferably may be 6.3 μm. Further, the basis weight of the first wrapper 351 is 50 g / m 2 ~55 g / m 2 and may be included within the range, and preferably may be 53 g / m 2 as well.

[0089] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be manufactured from a general filter paper roll. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be a porous paper roll or a non-porous paper roll.

[0090] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 may be 35000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the second wrapper 352 may be included within the range of 70 μm to 80 μm, and preferably may be 78 μm. Further, the basis weight of the second wrapper 352 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and may be included within the range, and preferably may be 23.5 g / m 2 as well.

[0091] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 may be 24000 CU, but is not limited thereto. Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 353 may be included within the range of 60 μm to 70 μm, and preferably may be 68 μm. Further, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and may be included within the range, and preferably may be 21 g / m 2 as well.

[0092] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means a triple-layer paper including a paper layer, a PLA layer, and another paper layer. For example, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 354 may be included within the range of 100 μm to 120 μm, and preferably may be 110 μm. Also, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 354 may be included within the range of 2 80 g / m 2 to 100 g / m 2 and preferably may be 88 g / m

[0093] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means a paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to ordinary paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be included within the range of 57 g / m 2 to 63 g / m 2 and preferably may be 60 g / m 2 Also, the thickness of the fifth wrapper 355 may be included within the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably may be 67 μm.

[0094] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth wrapper 355. Here, as an example of the predetermined substance, silicon may be applicable, but is not limited thereto. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance that is not oxidized, resistance to various chemicals, water repellency to water, or electrical insulation. However, even if it is not silicon, as long as it is a substance having the above-described properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0095] The shear plug 33 can be manufactured from cellulose acetate. As an example, the shear plug 33 may be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the cellulose acetate tow may be included in the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably in the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shear plug 33 may be 5.0. Also, 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 included in the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shear plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0096] Also, if necessary, the shear plug 33 may include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be manufactured in various ways.

[0097] The tobacco rod 31 may correspond to the tobacco rod 21 described above with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, specific descriptions of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0098] The first segment 321 can be manufactured from cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be a tubular structure including a hollow inside. The first segment 321 may be manufactured 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 those of the shear plug 33.

[0099] The second segment 322 can be manufactured from cellulose acetate. The mono denier of the filaments constituting the second segment 322 may be included within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, 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. Also, 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 included within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably may be 25,000.

[0100] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 400 according to an embodiment.

[0101] The aerosol generating device 400 may include 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, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment will be able to understand that, according to the design of the aerosol generating device 400, some of the configurations shown in FIG. 6 may be omitted or new configurations may be further added.

[0102] The detection unit 420 can detect the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the state around the aerosol generating device 400 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 410. The control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 based on the detected information so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 450, restriction of smoking, determination of the presence or absence of insertion of aerosol generating articles (for example, cigarettes, cartridges, etc.), and notification display are executed.

[0103] The detection unit 420 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 422, an insertion detection sensor 424, and a puff sensor 426, but is not limited thereto.

[0104] The temperature sensor 422 can detect the temperature at which the heater 450 (or the aerosol generating substance) is heated. The aerosol generating device 400 may include a separate temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heater 450, or the heater 450 itself can serve as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 422 may be arranged around the battery 440 to monitor the temperature of the battery 440.

[0105] The insertion detection sensor 424 can detect the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion detection sensor 424 may include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and may detect a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0106] The puff sensor 426 can detect the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 426 may detect the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0107] In addition to the sensors (422 - 426) described above, the detection unit 420 may further include at least one of a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of the angle sensor can be intuitively inferred by those skilled in the art from its name, a specific description may be omitted.

[0108] The output unit 430 can output information regarding the state of the aerosol generator 400 and provide it to the user. The output unit 430 may include at least one of a display unit 432, a haptic unit 434, and an acoustic output unit 436, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit 432 and the touch pad form a layer structure and are configured as a touch screen, the display unit 432 can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

[0109] The display unit 432 can visually provide information regarding the aerosol generator 400 to the user. For example, the information regarding the aerosol generator 400 may mean various information such as the charge / discharge state of the battery 440 of the aerosol generator 400, the preheating state of the heater 450, the insertion / removal state of the aerosol article, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 400 is limited (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. Also, the display unit 432 may be in the form of an LED light emitting element.

[0110] The haptic unit 434 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus and provide information regarding the aerosol generator 400 to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0111] The acoustic output unit 436 can aurally provide information regarding the aerosol generator 400 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 436 may convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0112] The battery 440 can supply the power used for the aerosol generator 400 to operate. The battery 440 can supply power so that the heater 450 can be heated. Also, the battery 440 can supply the power necessary for the operation of different components (for example, 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 generator 400. The battery 440 can 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.

[0113] The heater 450 can be supplied with power from the battery 440 to heat the aerosol generating substance. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generator 400 may further include a power conversion circuit (for example, a DC / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to the heater 450. Also, when the aerosol generator 400 generates aerosol by an induction heating method, the aerosol generator 400 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power source of the battery 440 into an AC power source.

[0114] 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 be supplied with power from the battery 440 and perform their functions. Although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generator 400 may further include a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to each component.

[0115] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Further, the heater 450 can be realized by a metal wire, a metal plate with conductive tracks disposed thereon, a ceramic heating element, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0116] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 450 may include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol generating material.

[0117] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 450 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol generating article and a second heater for heating the liquid phase.

[0118] The user input unit 460 can receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 460 can include, but is not limited to, a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch type, pressure resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface acoustic wave conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. Further, although not shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device 400 can further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via a connection interface such as a USB interface to transmit and receive information or charge the battery 440.

[0119] Memory 470 can store the data processed by control unit 410 and the data to be processed as hardware for storing various data processed within aerosol generator 400. Memory 470 may include at least one type of storage medium such as a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (random access memory), an SRAM (static random access memory), a ROM (read-only memory), an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), a PROM (programmable read-only memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, or an optical disk. Memory 470 can store data such as the operating time of aerosol generator 400, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and data regarding the user's smoking pattern.

[0120] Communication unit 480 may include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, communication unit 480 may include a short-range communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484.

[0121] Short-range wireless communication unit 482 may include, 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, etc.

[0122] The wireless communication unit 484 may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit 484 can also confirm and authenticate the aerosol generator 400 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0123] The control unit 410 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 400. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable by this microprocessor. It can also be understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs that it can also be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0124] 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 may control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. As another example, according to the control command of the control unit 410, the heating direct circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 450.

[0125] The control unit 410 can analyze the results detected by the detection unit 420 and then control the subsequent processes. For example, the control unit 410 may control the power supplied to the heater 450 so that the operation of the heater 450 starts or ends based on the results detected by the detection unit 420. In other examples, the control unit 410 may control the amount of power supplied to the heater 450 and the time during which the power is supplied so that the heater 450 is heated to a predetermined temperature or can maintain an appropriate temperature based on the results detected by the detection unit 420.

[0126] Based on the results detected by the detection unit 420, the control unit 410 can control the output unit 430. For example, when the puff count counted via the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number of times, the control unit 410 may notify the user that the aerosol generator 400 will end soon via at least one of the display unit 432, the haptic unit 434, and the acoustic output unit 436.

[0127] In one embodiment, the control unit 410 can control the power supply time and / or the power supply amount to the heater 450 according to the state of the aerosol generating article detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the aerosol generating article is in an over-wet state, the control unit 410 can control the power supply time to the induction coil and increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol generating article is in a general state.

[0128] One embodiment can also be realized in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable instructions such as program modules executed by a computer. The computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer, including all volatile and non-volatile media, and all separable and non-separable media. Also, the computer-readable medium can include all computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media includes all volatile and non-volatile, separable and non-separable media realized by any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The communication media typically includes modulated data signals such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information transmission medium.

[0129] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment, and FIG. 8 is a plan view of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a side view of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment, and FIG. 10 is a side view of an aerosol generating article according to one embodiment viewed from another direction.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, the aerosol generating article 501 may include an amorphous solid material. The "amorphous solid material" may be referred to as a "monolithic solid material" (i.e., a non-fibrous material) or a "dried gel". The amorphous solid material may be a solid material that can retain some fluid such as a liquid inside. The amorphous solid material may include at least a part of the aerosol generating substance. The amorphous solid material exists in a solid phase in a first temperature range (e.g., less than about 70 °C), exists in a liquid phase in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range (e.g., from about 70 °C or more to less than about 150 °C), and may exist in a gas phase or an aerosol in a third temperature range different from the first temperature range and the second temperature range (e.g., 150 °C or more). The amorphous solid material may be configured to undergo a phase change from a solid phase to a liquid phase and then from a liquid phase to a gas phase according to the conditions (e.g., temperature) of the environment in which the amorphous solid material exists.

[0131] The amorphous solid material may be formed of a gelling agent. In one embodiment, the amorphous solid material may include a flavoring agent, glycerol, and a tobacco material (e.g., nicotine). In one embodiment, the amorphous solid material may also include glycerol and a tobacco material.

[0132] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 501 may include a first portion 502 and a second portion 503 extending in one direction (e.g., the +X direction) from the first portion 502.

[0133] The first portion 502 may have a substantially curved surface 502A. For example, the first portion 502 may have a substantially hemispherical shape.

[0134] The second part 503 may include a first surface 503A (e.g., the front surface), a second surface 503B (e.g., the rear surface) opposite to the first surface 503A, a plurality of side surfaces 503C located between the first surface 503A and the second surface 503B, and an end surface 503D located between the first surface 503A and the second surface 503B and between the plurality of side surfaces 503C. In one embodiment, the first surface 503A, the second surface 503B, the plurality of side surfaces 503C, and / or the end surface 503D may be formed as substantially flat surfaces.

[0135] In one embodiment, the amorphous solid material may be included in the second part 503. In some embodiments, a part of the amorphous solid material may also be included in the first part 502.

[0136] In one embodiment, the second part 503 may include a discharge portion 504 formed on the end surface 503D. The discharge portion 504 may be configured to discharge a liquid material when the amorphous solid material undergoes a phase change from a solid phase to a liquid phase. In some embodiments, the discharge portion 504 may be formed on at least one of the first surface 503A, the second surface 503B, and the plurality of side surfaces 503C.

[0137] The second part 503 may have a thickness suitable for insertion into an aerosol generating device. For example, the distance between the first surface 503A and the second surface 503B (e.g., the thickness of the second part 503) may be defined as about 0.02 mm to about 0.3 mm.

[0138] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment, and FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating article inserted into an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the aerosol generating system 600 may include an aerosol generating article 601 (e.g., the aerosol generating article 501) and an aerosol generating device 604 configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating article 601.

[0140] The aerosol generating article 601 may contain an amorphous solid material. The aerosol generating article 601 may include a first portion 602 and a second portion 603 that extends from the first portion 602 and is at least partially inserted into the aerosol generating device 604.

[0141] The aerosol generating device 604 may include a housing 605. The housing 605 may include a first end 605A, a second end 605B (e.g., an inhalation end), and an air flow channel 605C that extends between the first end 605A and the second end 605B. In one embodiment, the housing 605 may include at least one air inlet formed at the first end 605A. In one embodiment, the air inlet may also be formed in other parts (e.g., the side surface) of the housing 605.

[0142] The aerosol generating device 604 may include a cavity 606 formed in the housing 605. The cavity 606 may be in fluid communication with the air flow channel 605C. The cavity 606 may be separated from the air flow channel 605C. The cavity 606 may be sized to receive at least a portion (e.g., the second portion 603) of the aerosol generating article 601. The cavity 606 may be connected to the first end 605A of the housing 605 and extend from the first end 605A towards the second end 605B.

[0143] The aerosol generating device 604 may include a receptor 607 configured to receive a liquid substance. The receptor 607 may include an absorbent element. For example, the absorbent element may include a core. The receptor 607 may be at least partially disposed in the air flow channel 605C and / or the cavity 606. The receptor 607 can absorb the liquid substance discharged from the aerosol generating article 601.

[0144] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 604 may not include a receptor 607. When the aerosol generating article 601 is inserted into the cavity 606, the liquid substance discharged from the aerosol generating article 601 can flow through the airflow channel 605C and be inhaled by the user through the second end portion 605B.

[0145] The aerosol generating device 604 may include heating elements 651, 652 configured to heat a target substance (for example, an amorphous solid substance or a liquid substance). The heating elements 651, 652 can heat the aerosol generating article 601 when the aerosol generating article 601 is inserted into the cavity 606.

[0146] In one embodiment, the heating elements 651, 652 may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article 601 using heat generated by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). "Surface plasmon resonance" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface between a metal particle and a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of electrons in the metal particles may be generated by light propagating from outside the heating elements 651, 652 (for example, light sources 653, 654). The excitation of electrons in the metal particles generates thermal energy, and the generated thermal energy can be transmitted into the environment to which the heating elements 651, 652 are applied. Using surface plasmon resonance can reduce the power consumption of the heating elements 651, 652.

[0147] In one embodiment, the heating elements 651, 652 may include a substrate and a plurality of metal particles formed on the substrate. In one embodiment, the heating elements 651, 652 may include at least one metal prism formed on the substrate. In one embodiment, the heating elements 651, 652 may include a metal film formed on the substrate.

[0148] In one embodiment, the heating elements 651 and 652 may include a first SPR heating element 651 and a second SPR heating element 652. The first SPR heating element 651 may be disposed on a first side (e.g., the upper side in FIGS. 11 and 12) with respect to the cavity 606, and the second SPR heating element 652 may be disposed on a second side opposite to the first side (e.g., the lower side in FIGS. 11 and 12) with respect to the cavity 606.

[0149] In one embodiment, the first SPR heating element 651 and the second SPR heating element 652 may be configured to heat the target substance in different temperature ranges. For example, the first SPR heating element 651 heats the amorphous solid substance in a temperature range (e.g., about 70 °C or higher to less than about 150 °C) that causes the amorphous solid substance in the aerosol generating article 601 to undergo a phase change to a liquid substance, and the second SPR heating element 652 may be configured to heat the liquid substance in a temperature range (e.g., about 150 °C or higher) that causes the liquid substance to undergo a phase change to a gaseous substance (e.g., an aerosol).

[0150] In one embodiment, the first SPR heating element 651 and the second SPR heating element 652 may start heating at different times. In some embodiments, the first SPR heating element 651 may start heating before the second SPR heating element 652. For example, after the first SPR heating element 651 heats the amorphous solid substance in the aerosol generating article 601 to cause a phase change to a liquid substance and the liquid substance is discharged from the aerosol generating article 601 and received by the receptor 607, the second SPR heating element 652 can heat the liquid substance in the receptor 607 to cause a phase change to an aerosol. The interval between the start time of heating of the first SPR heating element 651 and the start time of heating of the second SPR heating element 652 may be defined by a predetermined time or a time based on user input. The interval may be determined by a sensor (not shown) that detects the liquid substance in the receptor 607.

[0151] In one embodiment, the first SPR heater 651 and the second SPR heater 652 may have different structures from each other. For example, the first SPR heater 651 may include a substrate having a first thermal conductivity, and the second SPR heater 652 may include a substrate having a second thermal conductivity different from the first thermal conductivity. As another example, the first SPR heater 651 may include a first metal (e.g., gold), and the second SPR heater 652 may include a second metal (e.g.,). As still another example, the first SPR heater 651 may include an integral metal prism that defines a void, and the second SPR heater 652 may include a plurality of metal prisms that define a void. Forming the first SPR heater 651 and the second SPR heater 652 with different structures from each other may achieve different temperature rise characteristics or target temperatures from each other.

[0152] In one embodiment, the first SPR heater 651 may be arranged to abut against the cavity 606. The first SPR heater 651 may at least partially contact the second portion 603 when the aerosol generating article 601 is inserted into the cavity 606. In one embodiment, the first SPR heater 651 may be arranged adjacent to or spaced apart from the cavity 606.

[0153] In one embodiment, the second SPR heater 652 may be arranged spaced apart from the cavity 606. For example, a receptor 607 may be arranged between the cavity 606 and the second SPR heater 652. In one embodiment, the second SPR heater 652 may also be arranged adjacent to or abutting against the cavity 606.

[0154] In one embodiment, the heaters 651, 652 may also be realized by a single heater. For example, the single heater may be realized by the first SPR heater 651 or the second SPR heater 652. The single heater may heat the amorphous solid material in a temperature range that causes the amorphous solid material to undergo a phase change into a liquid material, and then heat the liquid material in a temperature range that causes the liquid material to undergo a phase change into a gaseous material.

[0155] The aerosol generator 604 may include light sources 653, 654 configured to emit light toward the heating elements 651, 652.

[0156] In one embodiment, the light sources 653, 654 may be configured to transmit optical signals at a predetermined angle toward the heating elements 651, 652. For example, the light sources 653, 654 may transmit optical signals at an angle at which total internal reflection can occur on the surfaces of the heating elements 651, 652 (e.g., the surface of the substrate and / or the surface of the metal prism). In one embodiment, the light sources 653, 654 can also transmit optical signals at any angle toward the heating elements 651, 652.

[0157] In one embodiment, the light sources 653, 654 may be configured to transmit light in the ultraviolet band, visible light band, and / or infrared band. In some embodiments, the light sources 653, 654 may be configured to transmit light in the visible light band (e.g., from about 380 nm to about 780 nm).

[0158] In some embodiments, the light sources 653, 654 may be configured to transmit light in a band corresponding to the metal particles forming the heating elements 651, 652. For example, the light sources 653, 654 may transmit light in a wavelength band corresponding to the average maximum absorbance by the metal particles. In an embodiment where the heating elements 651, 652 are formed of gold, the light sources 653, 654 may transmit light having a wavelength of about 638 nm.

[0159] In one embodiment, the light sources 653, 654 may transmit light at any suitable output. For example, the light sources 653, 654 may transmit light at an output of about 1,000 mW.

[0160] In one embodiment, the light sources 653, 654 may include light-emitting diodes and / or lasers. The light-emitting diodes and / or lasers may have a type and / or size suitable for inclusion in the aerosol generator 604. As an example, the lasers may include solid-state lasers and / or semiconductor lasers.

[0161] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 604 may include a first light source 653 configured to emit light toward the first SPR heater 651 and a second light source 654 configured to emit light toward the second SPR heater 652. In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 604 may also include a single heater and a single light source configured to emit light toward the single heater. In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 604 may not include the light sources 653, 654. The heaters 651, 652 may utilize light outside the aerosol generator 604.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be realized by light sources of the same type. In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be realized by light sources of different types.

[0163] In one embodiment, at least one of the first light source 653 and the second light source 654, i.e., 653, 654, may be configured to locally irradiate the heaters 651, 652.

[0164] In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be configured to irradiate substantially simultaneously. In one embodiment, the irradiation timing of any one of the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be different from the irradiation timing of the other one of the light sources.

[0165] In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may irradiate the heaters 651, 652 for substantially the same period of time. In one embodiment, the irradiation time of any one of the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be different from the irradiation time of the other one of the light sources.

[0166] In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may transmit light in substantially the same wavelength band. In one embodiment, the band of light irradiated by any one of the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be different from the band of light irradiated by the other one of the light sources.

[0167] In one embodiment, the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may irradiate the heating elements 651 and 652 with substantially the same illuminance. In one embodiment, the illuminance of either one of the first light source 653 and the second light source 654 may be different from the illuminance of the other light source.

[0168] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 604 may include a control unit 610 and a battery 640. In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 604 may not include a battery 640.

[0169] To describe the operation method of the aerosol generation system 600 according to one embodiment, the aerosol generation article 601 can be inserted into the cavity 606 in the aerosol generator 604. The first light source 653 can emit light toward the first SPR heating element 651. The aerosol generation article 601 opposite the first SPR heating element 651 is heated, and the amorphous solid substance in the aerosol generation article 601 can be primarily phase-changed into a liquid substance. The liquid substance may be finely discharged from the aerosol generation article 601 and flow to the receptor 607. The second light source 654 can emit light toward the second SPR heating element 652. The second SPR heating element 652 may heat the liquid substance received by the receptor 607. The liquid substance can be secondarily phase-changed into an aerosol. The aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the second end portion 605B along the air flow channel 605C.

[0170] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically showing an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 13, the aerosol generation system 700 may include an aerosol generation article 701 and an aerosol generator 704. The aerosol generation article 701 may include an amorphous solid substance. In one embodiment, the aerosol generation article 701 may include a conductive substance, an electromagnetic substance, or a magnetic substance. For example, the aerosol generation article 701 may include a susceptor. The aerosol generator 704 may include a cavity 706, a receptor 707, and a heating element 750.

[0172] In one embodiment, the receptor 707 may be arranged to at least partially surround the cavity 706. In one embodiment, the receptor 707 may include a plurality of receiving portions arranged around the cavity 706. In one embodiment, the receptor 707 may include a first receiving portion disposed on a first side (e.g., the upper side) of the cavity 706 and a second receiving portion disposed on a second side (e.g., the lower side) opposite the first side of the cavity 706.

[0173] In one embodiment, the receptor 707 may include an absorption element. For example, the absorption element may include a core. The receptor 707 can absorb the liquid substance discharged from the aerosol generating article 701.

[0174] In one embodiment, the heater 750 may include a conductive coil. The conductive coil may be configured to magnetically or electromagnetically couple with the aerosol generating article 701. The conductive coil can be wound clockwise along the periphery of the cavity 706. The conductive coil can be wound counterclockwise along the periphery of the cavity 706.

[0175] In one embodiment, the heater 750 may be realized by a single heater.

[0176] In one embodiment, the heater 750 may be arranged to surround the receptor 707. The heater 750 and the receptor 707 can be spaced apart from each other by forming a gap therebetween. The heater 750 and the receptor 707 may be substantially in contact with each other.

[0177] In one embodiment, the heater 750 may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article 701 within a temperature range (e.g., about 70 °C or more to less than about 150 °C) in which the amorphous solid substance in the aerosol generating article 701 undergoes a phase change to a liquid substance. The phase-changed liquid substance can flow to the receptor 707. The heater 750 may be configured to heat the liquid substance within a temperature range (e.g., about 150 °C or more) in which the liquid substance undergoes a phase change to a gaseous substance (e.g., aerosol).

[0178] In one embodiment, the heater 750 may start heating for phase change at different times from each other. For example, the heater 750 may heat the amorphous solid material at a first time to cause the amorphous solid material to undergo a phase change into a liquid material, and heat the liquid material at a second time different from the first time (for example, a second time later than the first time) to cause the liquid material to undergo a phase change into a gaseous material. The interval between the first time and the second time may be defined by a predetermined time or a time based on user input. The interval may be determined by a sensor (not shown) that detects the liquid material in the receiver 707.

[0179] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 704 may not include the receiver 707. The liquid material formed by heating and phase-changing the amorphous solid material in the aerosol generating article 701 can exit the aerosol generator 704 without being aerosolized.

[0180] To describe the operation method of the aerosol generation system 700 according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 701 can be inserted into the cavity 706 in the aerosol generator 704. Electrical energy is applied to the heater 750, and the aerosol generating article 701 can be heated by magnetic or electromagnetic coupling between the heater 750 and the aerosol generating article 701. The amorphous solid material in the aerosol generating article 701 can undergo a phase change into a liquid material. The liquid material can be discharged from the aerosol generating article 701 and flow into the receiver 707. More electrical energy is applied to the heater 750, and the liquid material in the receiver 707 can undergo a phase change into an aerosol by a greater coupling. The aerosol can exit the aerosol generator 704.

[0181] FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically showing an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 14, the aerosol generation system 800 may include an aerosol generation article 801 and an aerosol generation device 804. The aerosol generation article 801 may include an amorphous solid material. The aerosol generation device 804 may include a cavity 806, a receptor 807, and heating elements 851, 852.

[0183] In one embodiment, the receptor 807 may be disposed on one side (e.g., the lower side) of the cavity 806. In one embodiment, the receptor 807 may be disposed so as to at least partially surround the periphery of the cavity 806.

[0184] In one embodiment, the receptor 807 may include an absorption element. For example, the absorption element may include a core. The receptor 807 can absorb the liquid material discharged from the aerosol generation article 801.

[0185] In one embodiment, the heating elements 851, 852 may include electrically resistive heating elements.

[0186] In one embodiment, the heating elements 851, 852 may include a first electrically resistive heating element 851 and a second electrically resistive heating element 852. The first electrically resistive heating element 851 may be disposed on a first side (e.g., the upper side) with respect to the cavity 806, and the second electrically resistive heating element 852 may be disposed on a second side (e.g., the lower side) opposite to the first side with respect to the cavity 806.

[0187] In one embodiment, the first electrically resistive heating element 851 and the second electrically resistive heating element 852 may be configured to heat a target material in different temperature ranges. For example, the first electrically resistive heating element 851 heats the amorphous solid material in a temperature range (e.g., about 70 °C or more and less than about 150 °C) such that the amorphous solid material in the aerosol generation article 801 undergoes a phase change to a liquid material, and the second electrically resistive heating element 852 is configured to heat the liquid material in a temperature range (e.g., about 150 °C or more) such that the liquid material undergoes a phase change to a gaseous material (e.g., an aerosol).

[0188] In one embodiment, the first electrical resistive heater 851 and the second electrical resistive heater 852 may start heating at different times. In some embodiments, the first electrical resistive heater 851 may start heating before the second electrical resistive heater 852. For example, after the first electrical resistive heater 851 heats the amorphous solid material in the aerosol generating article 801 to cause a phase change to a liquid material, and the liquid material is discharged from the aerosol generating article 801 and received by the receptor 807, the second electrical resistive heater 852 can heat the liquid material in the receptor 807 to cause a phase change to an aerosol. The interval between the start time of heating of the first electrical resistive heater 851 and the start time of heating of the second electrical resistive heater 852 can be defined by a predetermined time or a time based on user input. The interval can be determined by a sensor (not shown) that detects the liquid material in the receptor 807.

[0189] In one embodiment, the first electrical resistive heater 851 may be arranged to abut against the cavity 806. The first electrical resistive heater 851 may be at least partially in contact with the aerosol generating article 801 when the aerosol generating article 801 is inserted into the cavity 806. In one embodiment, the first electrical resistive heater 851 may be arranged adjacent to or spaced apart from the cavity 806.

[0190] In one embodiment, the second electrical resistive heater 852 may be arranged spaced apart from the cavity 806. For example, the receptor 807 may be arranged between the cavity 806 and the second electrical resistive heater 852. In one embodiment, the second electrical resistive heater 852 may be arranged adjacent to or abutting against the cavity 806.

[0191] In one embodiment, the heaters 851, 852 can be realized by a single heater. For example, the single heater may be realized by the first electrically resistive heater 851 or the second electrically resistive heater 852. The single heater may heat the amorphous solid material within a temperature range that causes the amorphous solid material to undergo a phase change into a liquid material, and then heat the liquid material within a temperature range that causes the liquid material to undergo a phase change into a gaseous material.

[0192] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 804 may not include the receptacle 807. The liquid material formed by heating and phase-changing the amorphous solid material within the aerosol generating article 801 can exit the aerosol generating device 804 without being aerosolized.

[0193] To describe the operation method of the aerosol generation system 800 according to one embodiment, the aerosol generating article 801 can be inserted into the cavity 806 within the aerosol generating device 804. The aerosol generating article 801 opposite the first electrically resistive heater 851 can be heated, causing the amorphous solid material within the aerosol generating article 801 to primarily undergo a phase change into a liquid material. The liquid material can be finely discharged from the aerosol generating article 801 and flow into the receptacle 807. The second electrically resistive heater 852 can heat the liquid material received by the receptacle 807. The liquid material can secondarily undergo a phase change into an aerosol. The aerosol can exit the aerosol generating device 804.

[0194] The embodiments of this document are illustrative and not restrictive. Various changes to the details of the present disclosure can be made, including the appended claims and their equivalents. Any of the embodiments described in this specification may be used in combination with any other embodiment described in this specification.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article containing an amorphous solid substance, a cavity configured to receive the aerosol generating article, a receptor configured to receive a liquid substance from the aerosol generating article, and a heating body configured to heat the amorphous solid substance within a first temperature range in which the amorphous solid substance undergoes a phase change into the liquid substance, and to heat the liquid substance within a second temperature range different from the first temperature range in which the liquid substance undergoes a phase change into an aerosol, the aerosol generating system comprising: and the heating body includes a first heating body configured to heat the aerosol generating article within the first temperature range and a second heating body configured to heat the aerosol generating article within the second temperature range.

2. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the first heating body is a first surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heating body configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance.

3. The aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the second heating body is a second surface plasmon resonance (SPR) heating body configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance and arranged opposite to the first SPR heating body with respect to the cavity.

4. The aerosol generating system according to claim 3, wherein the first SPR heating body is configured to start heating at a first time, and the second SPR heating body is configured to start heating at a second time different from the first time.

5. The aerosol generating system according to claim 3, wherein the receptor is arranged between the cavity and the second SPR heating body.

6. The aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the first SPR heating body is configured to be in contact with the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity.

7. The aerosol generator is, a first light source configured to emit light toward the first SPR heater, a second light source configured to emit light toward the second SPR heater, and further includes the aerosol generation system according to claim 3.

8. An aerosol generating article containing an amorphous solid substance, a cavity configured to receive the aerosol generating article, a receptor configured to receive a liquid substance from the aerosol generating article, and a heater configured to heat the amorphous solid substance in a first temperature range in which the amorphous solid substance undergoes a phase change to the liquid substance, and to heat the liquid substance in a second temperature range different from the first temperature range in which the liquid substance undergoes a phase change to an aerosol, including, wherein the heater includes a conductive coil surrounding the cavity, and the aerosol generating article includes a susceptor configured to be coupled to the conductive coil, the aerosol generation system.

9. The heater is configured to start heating at a first time and heat the aerosol generating article in the first temperature range, and to start heating at a second time different from the first time and heat the aerosol generating article in the second temperature range, the aerosol generation system according to claim 8.

10. The receptor is disposed between the conductive coil and the cavity, the aerosol generation system according to claim 8.

11. The first heater is a first electrical resistance heater, the aerosol generation system according to claim 1.

12. The second heater is a second electrical resistance heater disposed opposite to the first electrical resistance heater with respect to the cavity, the aerosol generation system according to claim 11.

13. The first electrical resistance heater is configured to start heating at a first time, and the second electrical resistance heater is configured to start heating at a second time different from the first time. The aerosol generation system according to claim 12.

14. The receptor is disposed between the cavity and the second electrical resistance heater. The aerosol generation system according to claim 12.

15. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity, the first electrical resistance heater is configured to contact the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generation system according to claim 11.

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