Heating element, method for manufacturing heating element, and aerosol generating device including heating element

Abstract

The heating element is for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance and may include a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and a first metal prism positioned on the first surface so as to at least partially form a void region on the first surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heating element, a method for manufacturing a heating element, and an aerosol generating device including the heating element.

Background Art

[0002] Techniques for generating heat to heat a target have been developed. As an example, heat can be generated by supplying electrical energy to an electrically resistive element. As another example, heat can be generated by electromagnetic coupling between a coil and a susceptor. The background art described above is what was held or acquired during the derivation process of the present disclosure, and is not necessarily prior art publicly disclosed to the general public before the effective filing date of the present disclosure.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure can provide a heating element that generates heat using surface plasmon resonance (SPR), a method for manufacturing the heating element, and an aerosol generating device including the heating element.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The heating element is a heating element for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance, and may include a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a first metal prism located on the first surface so as to at least partially form a void region on the first surface.

[0005] The first metal prism may include a first base surface facing the first surface, a second base surface opposite to the first base surface, and a plurality of side surfaces between the first base surface and the second base surface.

[0006] The distance between the first base surface and the second base surface may be about 10 nm or less.

[0007] The first side surface and / or the second side surface may be formed as a substantially curved surface.

[0008] The void region may have a diameter in the range of about 300 nm to about 600 nm.

[0009] The first metal prism may include metal particles that resonate with light having a wavelength in the range of about 380 nm to about 780 nm.

[0010] The heating element may further include a second metal prism that at least partially forms the void region together with the first metal prism.

[0011] The first metal prism and the second metal prism may be separated from each other.

[0012] The first metal prism may define the entire periphery of the void region.

[0013] A method is a method for manufacturing a heating element for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance, including an operation of providing a substrate, an operation of spraying a plurality of beads onto the substrate, an operation of depositing a plurality of metal particles onto the substrate so as to form a metal prism on the substrate, and an operation of removing the plurality of beads so as to form a void region surrounded by the metal prism on the substrate.

[0014] The plurality of metal particles may be deposited such that the metal prism has a thickness of about 10 nm or less.

[0015] The plurality of beads may have a diameter in the range of about 300 nm to about 600 nm.

[0016] The method may further include an operation of etching the plurality of beads.

[0017] The plurality of beads may be etched such that the plurality of beads have a diameter in the range of about 300 nm to about 400 nm.

[0018] The aerosol generating device includes a light source and a heating element configured to receive light from the electrical light source, the heating element being a heating element for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance, and may include a substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a first metal prism located on the first surface so as to at least partially form a void region on the first surface.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to one embodiment, heat can be uniformly generated from the heating element by exciting free electrons to substantially the same extent. According to one embodiment, when the heating element is applied to heat a target, the target can be locally heated or at least some of a plurality of targets can be heated. The effects of the heating element, the method for manufacturing the heating element, and the aerosol generating device including the heating element 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 examples 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

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Figure 10

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Figure 12

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Figure 14

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Figure 16

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] The terms used in the embodiments are, as much as possible, general terms that are currently widely used while considering the functions in the present invention. 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 thereof 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, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, it does not exclude other components but further includes other components. 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 herein.

[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 tobacco) 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 the present embodiment are shown. Therefore, those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to the present 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, FIGS. 2 and 3 show the aerosol generator 1 as including the heater 13, but the heater 13 may be omitted as necessary.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows a configuration in which the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 2 shows a configuration in which the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 3 shows a configuration in which the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are 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] If necessary, 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 electric power used for the operation of the aerosol generator 1. For example, the battery 11 may supply electric power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 can be heated, or may supply the electric power necessary for the operation of the control unit 12. Further, the battery 11 may supply the electric 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 implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be implemented 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 implemented with 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 generating device 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 may 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 up to a desired temperature can be applicable without limitation. Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device 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] In addition, 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. Also, 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. Further, 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 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 passes through the aerosol generating article and is transmitted to the user.

[0042] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage unit (e.g., a reservoir), 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 generating device 1 as independent modules.

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

[0044] For example, the liquid composition may include 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 composition may include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

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

[0046] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid 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 therewith, 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 (for example, a puff sensor, a temperature sensor, an insertion detection sensor for an aerosol generating article, etc.). Further, the aerosol generating device 1 may be manufactured with a structure that allows outside air to flow in or internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol generating 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 generating article 2 can be similar to a general combustion-type cigarette. For example, the aerosol generating article 2 may be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Or, the second part of the aerosol generating article 2 may also contain an aerosol generating substance. For example, an aerosol generating 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 can be inserted, and the second part can 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 generating device 1 through at least one air passage formed therein. 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 the user. Therefore, the amount of smoke, smoking feeling, etc. may be adjusted by the user. As another example, outside air may flow into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 2.

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

[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 portion 21 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second portion 22 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 packaged by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole can be formed in the wrapper 24 for the inflow of outside air and the outflow of internal gas. As an example, the aerosol generating article 2 may be packaged by one wrapper 24. As another example, the aerosol generating article 2 may be repeatedly packaged by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be packaged by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 may be packaged by the wrappers 242, 243, 244. And the whole of the aerosol generating article 2 may be repackaged by a single wrapper 245. If the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment may be packaged by the wrappers 242, 243, 244.

[0059] The first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of a general filter paper. For example, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 may be porous paper 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 holder from being contaminated by 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 (such as moisture) 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 from 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-type 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 adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the production of the first segment. Further, the first segment may be produced by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube made of the same or a mold-releasing material inside (for example, hollow).

[0072] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by heating the tobacco rod 21 by the heater 13. 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 produced 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 produced 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] By being formed of woven polymer fibers or wound polymer sheets, the second segment may include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which a 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 fragrance 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 may occur in which the persistence of the fragrance transmitted to the user is enhanced.

[0081] Further, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can perform a function of generating a fragrance 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 the diameter and overall length 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, at least one capsule 34 may be included in the second segment 322. Here, the capsule 34 can function to generate a fragrance or to generate 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 .

[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 .

[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 .

[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 a 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 shearing plug 33 can be manufactured from cellulose acetate. As an example, the shearing 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 within the range of 1.0 to 10.0, preferably within the range of 4.0 to 6.0. More preferably, the mono denier of the filaments of the shearing plug 33 may be 5.0. Also, the cross-section of the filaments constituting the shearing plug 33 may be Y-shaped. The total denier of the shearing plug 33 may be included within the range of 20,000 to 30,000, preferably within the range of 25,000 to 30,000. More preferably, the total denier of the shearing plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0096] Also, if necessary, the shearing 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, a specific description 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 having 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 shearing 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 depending on 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 an aerosol generating article (e.g., a cigarette, a cartridge, 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, an air 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 generating article, or the 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. Further, 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. Further, 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 supply of the battery 440 into an AC power supply.

[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 functions. Although not shown in FIG. 6, it may further include a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the battery 440 and supplies it to each component, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit.

[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 may 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 may 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 data processed by the control unit 410 and data to be processed as hardware for storing various data processed within the aerosol generator 400. Memory 470 can 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 the 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] The communication unit 480 can include at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 480 may include a short-range communication unit 482 and a wireless communication unit 484.

[0121] The short-range wireless communication unit 482 can 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. Also, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs can understand that it can also be implemented in another form 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 direct heating 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 for 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] The control unit 410 can control the output unit 430 based on the results detected by the detection unit 420. For example, when the number of puff counts counted via the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number, 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] FIGS. 7 to 10 are diagrams showing a method for manufacturing a heating element according to one embodiment. The order of operations for manufacturing the heating element is not limited to the order described in this specification, and at least one additional operation may be included during the operations, or any one of the described operations may be omitted, or the order of some operations may be changed.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 7, the method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include an operation of providing a substrate 551. The substrate 551 may have a plate shape with opposite surfaces (for example, a surface oriented in the +Z direction and a surface oriented in the -Z direction). At least one surface of the substrate 551 (for example, the surface oriented in the +Z direction) may be substantially flat.

[0131] According to an embodiment, the substrate 551 may be formed of various materials. For example, the substrate 551 may be formed of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), sapphire, polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate, and / or any other material suitable for heat conduction. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may be formed of any one or a combination of glass, silicon (Si), silicon oxide (SiO2), and sapphire. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may include a material having a relatively low heat transfer coefficient. This may allow heat to be transferred only to a partial region on the substrate 551.

[0132] In one embodiment, the substrate 551 may exhibit conductivity. Alternatively, the substrate 551 may also exhibit electrical insulation.

[0133] In one embodiment, the substrate 551 may be formed of a material having any thermal conductivity suitable for use in the environment where the heating element 550 is disposed. For example, the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1 W / mK to about 2 W / mK, about 2 W / mK to about 5 W / mK, about 5 W / mK to about 10 W / mK, about 10 W / mK to about 100 W / mK, about 100 W / mK to about 200 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may have a thermal conductivity of about 0.6 W / mK or less, about 1.3 W / mK, about 148 W / mK, or about 46.06 W / mK at a pressure of 1 bar and a temperature of 25°C.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 8, a method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include an operation of applying a plurality of beads 552 on one surface of the substrate 551 (for example, the surface oriented in the +Z direction). The plurality of beads 552 may be patterned in a monolayer (i.e., substantially a single layer) on one surface of the substrate 551.

[0135] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be deposited on the substrate 551 in any suitable manner. For example, the plurality of beads 552 may be deposited by physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, and / or any other suitable manner. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may be deposited by a physical vapor deposition method.

[0136] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be applied at a substantially low heat-resistant temperature. As an example, the plurality of beads 552 may be applied at a heat-resistant temperature of about 110 °C or less, about 100 °C or less, about 90 °C or less, about 80 °C or less, about 70 °C or less, about 60 °C or less, about 50 °C or less, about 40 °C or less, or about 30 °C or less. As an example, the plurality of beads 552 may be applied at a heat-resistant temperature of about 20 °C or more, about 30 °C or more, about 40 °C or more, about 50 °C or more, about 60 °C or more, about 70 °C or more, or about 80 °C or more. In some examples, the plurality of beads 552 may be applied at a heat-resistant temperature close to room temperature (about 25 °C).

[0137] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may have a substantially curved surface. For example, the plurality of beads 552 may each be formed as a sphere having a circular or elliptical cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be formed as a solid having a polygonal cross-sectional shape.

[0138] In one embodiment, some of the plurality of beads 552 may be arranged in contact with each other. In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be arranged leaving a region between some (e.g., three) adjacent beads 552.

[0139] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be applied on the substrate 551 in a regular array. For example, the plurality of beads 552 may include a plurality of first beads 552A and a plurality of second beads 552B arranged in a first direction (e.g., ±X direction) of the substrate 551. The first beads 552A and the second beads 552B may alternate in a second direction (e.g., ±Y direction) intersecting the first direction of the substrate 551. In some embodiments, the plurality of first beads 552A and the plurality of second beads 552B may be arranged such that their centers are not concentric when the first beads 552A and the second beads 552B view the substrate 551 in one direction (e.g., ±Y direction).

[0140] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may be formed of a styrene resin, a (meth)acrylic resin, an imide resin, and / or a copolymer thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may be formed of polymethyl methacrylate, polyethyl methacrylate, poly n-butyl methacrylate, poly sec-butyl methacrylate, poly tert-butyl methacrylate, polymethyl acrylate, polyisopropyl acrylate, polycyclohexyl methacrylate, poly 2-methylcyclohexyl methacrylate, polydicyclopentanyloxyethyl methacrylate, polyisobornyl methacrylate, polycyclohexyl acrylate, poly 2-methylcyclohexyl acrylate, polydicyclopentenyl acrylate, polydicyclopentanyl acrylate, polydicyclopentanyl acrylate, polydicyclopentanyl methacrylate, polydicyclopentanyloxyethyl acrylate, polyisobornyl acrylate, polyphenyl methacrylate, polyphenyl acrylate, polybenzyl acrylate, polybenzyl methacrylate, poly 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, poly α-methylstyrene, poly m-methylstyrene, poly p-methylstyrene, vinyltoluene, 1,3-butadiene, isoprene, 2,3-dimethyl 1,3-butadiene, polyimide, and / or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may be formed of polystyrene or silica. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may be formed of polystyrene.

[0141] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may have an average maximum diameter of about 10 nm or more, about 50 nm or more, about 90 nm or more, about 100 nm or more, about 150 nm or more, about 200 nm or more, about 300 nm or more, about 450 nm or more, or about 500 nm or more. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may have an average maximum diameter of about 450 nm or more.

[0142] In one embodiment, the plurality of beads 552 may have an average maximum diameter of about 1,000 nm or less, about 900 nm or less, about 800 nm or less, about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, or about 550 nm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 552 may have an average maximum diameter of about 600 nm or less.

[0143] Referring to FIG. 9, a method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include an operation of depositing a plurality of metal particles 553 on one surface of the substrate 551 (e.g., the surface oriented in the +Z direction).

[0144] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles 553 may have a nanoscale size. For example, the plurality of metal particles 553 may have an average maximum diameter of about 1 μm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of metal particles 553 may have an average maximum diameter of about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, about 500 nm or less, about 400 nm or less, about 300 nm or less, about 200 nm or less, about 150 nm or less, or about 100 nm or less.

[0145] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles 553 may be deposited on the substrate 551 and / or the plurality of beads 552 by any suitable deposition method. For example, the plurality of metal particles 553 may be deposited by sputtering, ion beam deposition, thermal evaporation, chemical vapor deposition, plasma deposition, and / or any other suitable deposition method.

[0146] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles 553 may be deposited on a first deposition region A1 including the exposed regions of the plurality of beads 552 located on one surface of the substrate 551, and on a second deposition region A2 including at least a partial region of one surface of the substrate 551 and / or the region between the plurality of beads 552. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 may include a non-deposition region A3 where the plurality of metal particles 553 are not deposited and the plurality of beads 552 are not located.

[0147] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles 553 can be formed of any material suitable for generating heat. For example, the plurality of metal particles 553 may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, platinum, aluminum, titanium, nickel, chromium, iron, cobalt, manganese, rhodium, and ruthenium, or a combination thereof.

[0148] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal particles 553 can be formed of any material suitable for interacting with light in a specific wavelength band (e.g., the visible light wavelength band, i.e., from about 380 nm to about 780 nm) to generate heat. For example, the plurality of metal particles 553 may include at least one of gold, silver, copper, palladium, and platinum, or a combination thereof.

[0149] In some embodiments, the plurality of metal particles 553 can be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance. Here, the average maximum absorbance can be defined as the absorbance having a substantially peak corresponding to a specific wavelength band. The specific wavelength band corresponding to the absorbance can be understood as the wavelength band at which the plurality of metal particles 553 resonate. For example, the plurality of metal particles 553 may be formed of a metal material having an average maximum absorbance in a wavelength band between about 430 nm and about 450 nm, between about 480 nm and about 500 nm, between about 490 nm and about 510 nm, between about 500 nm and about 520 nm, between about 550 nm and about 570 nm, between about 600 nm and about 620 nm, between about 620 nm and about 640 nm, between about 630 nm and about 650 nm, between about 640 nm and about 660 nm, between about 680 nm and about 700 nm, or between about 700 nm and about 750 nm. The average maximum absorbance of the plurality of metal particles 553 can vary depending on, in addition to the metal material, the type of the substrate 551, the size and / or the shape of the structure (e.g., a metal prism) formed by the plurality of metal particles 553.

[0150] In one embodiment, the deposition thickness of the plurality of metal particles 553 can be about 20 nm or less. In a preferred embodiment, the deposition thickness of the plurality of metal particles 553 can be about 10 nm or less. When the plurality of metal particles 553 are deposited on the substrate 551 with a thickness exceeding 10 nm, the exothermic reaction in the structure (e.g., metal prism) formed by the plurality of metal particles 553 can decrease. Also, the possibility of heat being taken away from the periphery of the heating element 550 increases, whereby the thermal efficiency of the heating element 550 can decrease.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 10, a method of manufacturing the heating element 550 can include an operation of removing a plurality of beads (e.g., beads 552 in FIGS. 8 and 9). When the plurality of beads are removed, a void region VA surrounded by at least one (e.g., a plurality) of metal prisms 554 can be formed on the substrate 551. The void region VA may have a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the beads (e.g., substantially circular or elliptical).

[0152] Removing the plurality of beads can be performed in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the plurality of beads can be dissolved by a solvent by immersing them in the solvent. For example, the solvent may include one or more of toluene, acetone, benzene, phenol, ether, and / or any other suitable inorganic solvent or any organic solvent. In one embodiment, the plurality of beads can be removed by an etching process (e.g., reactive ion etching (RIE), ion milling, and / or any other etching).

[0153] In one embodiment, the void region VA can have an average maximum diameter of about 10 nm or more, about 50 nm or more, about 90 nm or more, about 100 nm or more, about 150 nm or more, about 200 nm or more, about 300 nm or more, about 350 nm or more, about 450 nm or more, or about 500 nm or more. In some embodiments, the void region VA can have an average maximum diameter of about 450 nm or more.

[0154] In one embodiment, the void region VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 1,000 nm or less, about 900 nm or less, about 800 nm or less, about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, or about 550 nm or less. In some embodiments, the void region VA may have an average maximum diameter of about 600 nm or less.

[0155] In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include an operation of reducing the size of a plurality of beads (e.g., the beads 552 in FIGS. 8 and 9). At least a portion of the plurality of beads can be reduced in size by an etching process. For example, reactive ion etching (RIE) can be selected as one advantageous process considering that the free electrons of the metal particles concentrate in the edge area of the metal prism (e.g., the metal prism 654).

[0156] In one embodiment, the reduced size of the plurality of beads may have an average maximum diameter of about 10 nm or more, about 50 nm or more, about 90 nm or more, about 100 nm or more, about 150 nm or more, about 200 nm or more, about 300 nm or more, about 350 nm or more, about 450 nm or more, or about 500 nm or more. In some embodiments, the reduced size of the plurality of beads may have an average maximum diameter of about 300 nm or more. In some embodiments, the reduced size of the plurality of beads may have an average maximum diameter of about 350 nm or more.

[0157] In one embodiment, the reduced size of the plurality of beads may have an average maximum diameter of about 1,000 nm or less, about 900 nm or less, about 800 nm or less, about 700 nm or less, about 600 nm or less, or about 550 nm or less. In some embodiments, the reduced size of the plurality of beads may have an average maximum diameter of about 400 nm or less.

[0158] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a heating element according to one embodiment, FIG. 12 is a plan view of a heating element according to one embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the heating element of FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13.

[0159] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, the heating element 650 can be configured to generate heat by surface plasmon resonance. "Surface plasmon resonance" refers to the collective oscillation of electrons propagating along the interface between metal particles and a medium. For example, the collective oscillation of electrons in metal particles may be generated by light propagating from outside the heating element 650. The excitation of electrons in metal particles generates thermal energy, and the generated thermal energy can be transmitted into the environment to which the heating element 650 is applied.

[0160] In one embodiment, the heating element 650 may include a substrate 651 having a first surface 651A (e.g., the upper surface in FIG. 13) and a second surface 651B (e.g., the lower surface in FIG. 13) opposite to the first surface 651A, and a plurality (e.g., six) of metal prisms 654 located on the first surface 651A of the substrate 651. The plurality of metal prisms 654 may define a void region VA surrounded by the plurality of metal prisms 654 on the first surface 651A of the substrate 651. For example, the void region VA may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape, and the plurality of metal prisms 654 may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the void region VA.

[0161] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal prisms 654 may each include a first base surface 654A (e.g., the lower base surface) facing the first surface 651A of the substrate 651, a second base surface 654B (e.g., the upper base surface) opposite to the first base surface 654A, and a plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 between the first base surface 654A and the second base surface 654B.

[0162] In one embodiment, the first base surface 654A and the second base surface 654B may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0163] In one embodiment, the first base surface 654A and / or the second base surface 654B may be substantially flat.

[0164] In one embodiment, the distance between the first base surface 654A and the second base surface 654B (e.g., the thickness of the metal prism 654) can be about 10 nm or less. If the metal prism 654 has a thickness exceeding 10 nm, the exothermic reaction of the plurality of metal particles forming the metal prism 654 can be reduced, and as a result, the thermal efficiency of the heating element 650 can be reduced.

[0165] In one embodiment, the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be oriented in different directions from each other. For example, the first side surface 654C1 can be oriented in a first direction (e.g., a first radial direction), the second side surface 654C2 can be connected to the first side surface 654C1 and oriented in a second direction (e.g., a second radial direction), and the third side surface 654C3 can be connected to the first side surface 654C1 and the second side surface 654C2 respectively and oriented in a third direction (e.g., a third radial direction).

[0166] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be formed as a substantially curved surface. In some embodiments, the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be formed as curved surfaces having substantially the same curvature. In one embodiment, the curvature of any one of the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be different from the curvature of another one of the side surfaces.

[0167] In one embodiment, the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be formed as curved surfaces that are concave toward the center of the metal prism 654. In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of side surfaces 654C1, 654C2, 654C3 can be formed as a curved surface that is convex from the center of the metal prism 654.

[0168] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal prisms 654 can include two side surfaces. For example, the metal prism 654 can have a substantially semi-circular or near semi-circular shape.

[0169] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal prisms 654 may be physically separated from each other and disposed on the first surface 651A of the substrate 651. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the plurality of metal prisms 654 may be spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval along the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void region VA.

[0170] In one embodiment, the plurality of metal prisms 654 may be offset from each other at substantially equal intervals. Alternatively, the interval between an adjacent pair of the plurality of metal prisms 654 may be different from the interval between another adjacent pair of metal prisms 654.

[0171] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a heating element according to one embodiment.

[0172] Referring to FIG. 14, the heating element 750 may include a substrate 751 and metal prisms 754 located on the substrate 751. The metal prism 754 may be a substantially single structure including a plurality of void regions VA. For example, the metal prism 754 may substantially define the entire periphery of the plurality of void regions VA. The metal prism 754 may include a first prism region 7541 at one position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void region VA, a second prism region 7542 at another position on the periphery (e.g., circumference) of the void region VA, and a third prism region 7543 between the first prism region 7541 and the second prism region 7542. The first prism region 7541, the second prism region 7542, and the third prism region 7543 may be integrally and seamlessly connected.

[0173] FIG. 15 is a graph comparing the temperature rises of various heating elements due to the output of a light source.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 15, a test was conducted to compare the temperature rises of the heating elements SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4 while changing the output of a light source that emits a laser to the heating elements SP1, SP2, SP3, and SP4.

[0175] The first heating element SP1 was manufactured by applying approximately 460 nm polystyrene beads so as to have a plurality of triangular prisms made of gold material with a thickness of about 10 nm on a substrate made of glass material. The second heating element SP2 was manufactured so as to have a film made of gold material with a thickness of about 50 nm on a substrate made of glass material. The third heating element SP3 was manufactured so as not to have any structure (e.g., prism or film) on a substrate made of glass material. The fourth heating element SP4 was manufactured by applying approximately 460 nm polystyrene beads so as to have a prism made of gold material with a thickness of about 10 nm on a substrate made of glass material, and by etching the polystyrene beads by reactive ion etching, so as to form an integral prism structure that defines the entire periphery of a plurality of void regions.

[0176] As confirmed by the graph, the second heating element SP2 and the third heating element SP3 showed a low temperature rise with an increase in the laser output. On the other hand, the first heating element SP1 and the fourth heating element SP4 showed a higher temperature rise rate compared to the laser output than the second heating element SP2 and the third heating element SP3, indicating that the target temperature can be reached at a relatively low output. In particular, the fourth heating element SP4 showed an even higher temperature increase rate compared to the first heating element SP1, indicating that it can be applied to heating elements that require a higher target temperature.

[0177] FIG. 16 is a diagram of an aerosol generator according to an embodiment.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 16, the aerosol generating device 800 (e.g., aerosol generating device 1,400) may include at least one heating element 850 (e.g., heater 13,450 and / or heating elements 550,650,750) configured to heat an aerosol generating article (e.g., aerosol generating articles 2,3), and at least one light source 855 configured to emit light toward at least one heating element 850. On the other hand, FIG. 16 shows that the aerosol generating device 800 includes a control unit 810 (e.g., control units 12,410) configured to control the heating element 850 and / or the light source 855, and a battery 840 (e.g., batteries 11,440) configured to supply electrical energy to the control unit 810, but other components may be included or omitted.

[0179] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 800 may include a single heating element 850. The heating element 850 can at least partially surround a cavity in which an aerosol generating article can be disposed. The heating element 850 may have a structure in which, for example, the substrates 551,651,751 have at least a partially curved surface.

[0180] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 800 may include a plurality of heating elements 850. The plurality of heating elements 850 may be arranged in different portions of each other based on a cavity in which an aerosol generating article can be disposed. The metal materials of the metal prisms included in the plurality of heating elements 850 may be the same or different.

[0181] In one embodiment, the light source 855 may be configured to transmit an optical signal at a predetermined angle toward the heating element 850. For example, the light source 855 may transmit an optical signal at an angle at which total reflection can occur on the surface of the heating element 850 (e.g., the surfaces of the substrates 551,651,751 and / or the surfaces 654B, 654C1,654C2,654C3 of the metal prisms 554,654,754). In one embodiment, the light source 855 can also transmit an optical signal at an arbitrary angle toward the heating element 850.

[0182] In one embodiment, the light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in the ultraviolet band, visible light band, and / or infrared band. In some embodiments, the light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in the visible light band (e.g., from about 380 nm to about 780 nm).

[0183] In one embodiment, the light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in the ultraviolet band, visible light band, and / or infrared band. In some embodiments, the light source 855 may be configured to transmit light in the visible light band (e.g., from about 380 nm to about 780 nm).

[0184] In one embodiment, the light source 855 may include a light-emitting diode and / or a laser. The light-emitting diode and / or the laser may have a type and / or size suitable for inclusion in the aerosol generator 800. As an example, the laser may include a solid-state laser and / or a semiconductor laser.

[0185] In one embodiment, the aerosol generator 800 may include a plurality of light sources 855. The plurality of light sources 855 may be realized by light sources of the same type. In one embodiment, at least some of the plurality of light sources 855 may be realized by light sources of different types.

[0186] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be configured to irradiate a part of the heating element 850.

[0187] In one embodiment, the portion of the heating element 850 irradiated by any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the portion of the heating element 850 irradiated by another one of the light sources 855. For example, the plurality of light sources 855 may irradiate different portions of a single heating element 850, or may irradiate a plurality of heating elements 850 respectively.

[0188] In one embodiment, the portion of the heating element 850 irradiated by any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the portion of the heating element 850 irradiated by another one of the light sources 855. For example, the plurality of light sources 855 may irradiate different portions of a single heating element 850, or may irradiate a plurality of heating elements 850 respectively.

[0189] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 855 may irradiate the heating element 850 during substantially the same period of time. In one embodiment, the irradiation time of any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the irradiation time of another one of the light sources 855.

[0190] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 855 may transmit light in substantially the same wavelength band. In one embodiment, the band of light irradiated by any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the band of light irradiated by another one of the light sources 855.

[0191] In one embodiment, the plurality of light sources 855 may irradiate the heating element 850 at substantially the same illuminance. In one embodiment, the illuminance of any one of the plurality of light sources 855 may be different from the illuminance of another one of the light sources 855.

[0192] The embodiments of this document are illustrative and not restrictive. Various changes to the details of the present disclosure can be made, including those within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Any of the embodiments described herein may be used in combination with any other embodiment described herein.

Claims

1. A heating element for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance, comprising: A substrate including a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; A metal prism located on the first surface; and The metal prism is a single structure and defines a plurality of void regions, the heating element.

2. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the void regions have a diameter in the range of about 300 nm to about 600 nm.

3. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the metal prism includes metal particles that resonate with light having a wavelength in the range of about 380 nm to about 780 nm.

4. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the metal prism defines an entire periphery of the plurality of void regions.

5. A method for manufacturing a heating element for generating heat by surface plasmon resonance, comprising: Providing a substrate; Spraying a plurality of beads onto the substrate; Depositing a plurality of metal particles onto the substrate and the plurality of beads so as to form a metal prism, which is a single structure, on the substrate; Removing the plurality of beads so as to form a plurality of void regions surrounded by the metal prism on the substrate; and the method.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of metal particles are deposited such that the metal prism has a thickness of about 10 nm or less.

7. The method according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of beads have a diameter in the range of about 450 nm to about 600 nm.

8. The method according to claim 5, further comprising etching the plurality of beads.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of beads are etched such that the plurality of beads have a diameter in the range of about 300 nm to about 400 nm. **Claim 10** A light source, A heating element according to claim 1 configured to receive light from an electrical light source, An aerosol generating device comprising the same.

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