Heating element and aerosol generating device including the same

Abstract

The heating element may include a core having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a third side extending between the first side and the second side, the core including a plurality of dimples formed on an outer surface of the third side that do not penetrate the third side, and a coil wound along the outer surface between the core and the first side and the second side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heating element and an aerosol generating device including the same.

Background Art

[0002] In order to improve atomization performance, techniques for introducing an air flow into an aerosol generating article 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.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present disclosure can provide a heating element that reduces power consumption required to reach a temperature at which an aerosol is generated, and an aerosol generating device including the same.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] According to one embodiment, the heating element is a core having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a third side extending between the first side and the second side, wherein a plurality of dimples are formed on an outer surface of the third side and do not penetrate the third side, and may include the core and a coil wound along the outer surface between the first side and the second side.

[0005] In one embodiment, the core may include a metallic material.

[0006] In one embodiment, the core may further include an oxide film formed on the outer surface.

[0007] In one embodiment, the plurality of dimples may be formed on a nanometer scale.

[0008] In one embodiment, the plurality of dimples may include a plurality of first dimples arranged in a first direction on the outer surface, and a plurality of second dimples spaced from the plurality of first dimples in a second direction of the outer surface perpendicular to the first direction such that the first dimples and the second dimples do not completely overlap in the second direction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the core may be disposed to face the outer side surface and may further include an inner surface defining a hollow portion.

[0010] In one embodiment, the coil may be configured to be at least partially in contact with the outer surface.

[0011] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating device includes a storage for storing an aerosol generating substance and a heating body configured to heat the aerosol generating substance. The heating body is a core having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a third side extending between the first side and the second side. The core includes a plurality of dimples formed on an outer surface of the third side and not penetrating the third side, and may include the core and a coil wound along the outer surface between the first side and the second side.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to one embodiment, the size of the device can be reduced. According to one embodiment, the energy efficiency (e.g., battery efficiency) of the device can be increased. The effects of the heating body according to one embodiment and the aerosol generating device including the same are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description.

[0013] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of 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

[0014]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] The terms used in the examples were chosen as the currently widely used general terms possible while considering the functions in the present invention. However, this may change 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 description part of the corresponding invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based not on the mere names of the terms but on the meanings the terms have and the content throughout the present invention.

[0016] Throughout the specification, when a part states that a certain component "includes", this means that, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, it does not exclude other components but may further include other components. Further, terms such as "… part" and "… module" described in the specification mean units that process at least one function or operation, and these may be realized as hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0017] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, 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.

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0019] FIGS. 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example in which a cigarette is inserted into an aerosol generating device.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a battery 11, a control unit 12, and a heater 13. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generating device 1 further includes an atomizer 14. Also, a cigarette 2 can be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generating device 1.

[0021] In the aerosol generator 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the components according to this embodiment are shown. Therefore, those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field related to this embodiment can understand that, in addition to the components shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, other general-purpose components may be further included in the aerosol generator 1.

[0022] Furthermore, FIGS. 2 and 3 show that the heater 13 is included in the aerosol generator 1, but the heater 13 may be omitted if necessary.

[0023] FIG. 1 shows that the battery 11, the control unit 12, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Also, FIG. 2 shows that the battery 11, the control unit 12, the vaporizer 14, and the heater 13 are arranged in a row. Further, FIG. 3 shows that the vaporizer 14 and the heater 13 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1 is not limited to what is 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.

[0024] When the cigarette 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 cigarette 2 and is transmitted to the user.

[0025] If necessary, even when the cigarette 2 is not inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the aerosol generator 1 can heat the heater 13.

[0026] The battery 11 supplies the power used for the aerosol generator 1 to operate. For example, the battery 11 can supply power so that the heater 13 or the vaporizer 14 is heated, and can supply the power necessary for the control unit 12 to operate. Also, the battery 11 can supply the power necessary for a display, a sensor, a motor, etc. installed in the aerosol generator 1 to operate.

[0027] The control unit 12 controls the operation of the aerosol generator 1 as a whole. Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the operation of not only the battery 11, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14, but also other components included in the aerosol generator 1. Also, the control unit 12 can check the respective states of the components of the aerosol generator 1 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1 is in an operable state.

[0028] The control unit 12 includes at least one processor. The processor may be realized by an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executed by this microprocessor. Also, it can be understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs that it may be realized by other forms of hardware.

[0029] The heater 13 is heated by the power supplied from the battery 11. For example, when a cigarette is inserted into the aerosol generator 1, the heater 13 can be located outside the cigarette. Therefore, the heated heater 13 can raise the temperature of the aerosol generating substance in the cigarette.

[0030] The heater 13 may be an electric resistance heater. For example, the heater 13 includes a conductive track, and as current flows through the conductive track, the heater 13 is heated. However, the heater 13 is not limited to the above example, and can be any device that can be heated to a desired temperature. Here, the desired temperature may already be set in the aerosol generating device 1, or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0031] On the other hand, as another example, the heater 13 may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 13 can include a conductive coil for heating the cigarette by induction heating, and the cigarette may include a susceptor that is heated by the induction heating heater.

[0032] For example, the heater 13 can include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and can heat the inside or outside of the cigarette 2 depending on the shape of the heating element.

[0033] Also, a plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged in the aerosol generating device 1. Here, the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, or may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Also, a part of the plurality of heaters 13 may be arranged to be inserted inside the cigarette 2, and the rest may be arranged outside the cigarette 2. Furthermore, the shape of the heater 13 is not limited to the shapes shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and can be made in various shapes.

[0034] The vaporizer 14 can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be transmitted to the user through the cigarette 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 cigarette and is transmitted to the user.

[0035] For example, the vaporizer 14 may include, but is not limited to, a liquid storage part (e.g., a reservoir), liquid delivery means, and a heating element. For example, the liquid storage part, liquid delivery means, and heating element may be included in the aerosol generating device 1 as independent modules.

[0036] The liquid storage part can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid 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 made to be detachable from the vaporizer 14, or may be made integrally with the vaporizer 14.

[0037] 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, various fruit fragrance components, etc. The flavoring agent may include components that can provide various fragrances or flavors to the user. The vitamin mixture may include 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.

[0038] The liquid delivery means can transfer the liquid composition in the liquid storage part to the heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can be a wick such as cotton fiber, ceramic fiber, glass fiber, porous ceramic, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0039] The heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transferred by the liquid delivery means. For example, the heating element may be a metal heating wire, a metal hot plate, a ceramic heater, etc., but is not limited thereto. Further, the heating element can be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire and can be arranged in a structure wound around the liquid delivery means. The heating element can be heated by current supply and can transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element to heat the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0040] For example, the vaporizer 14 may be called a cartomizer or an atomizer, but is not limited thereto.

[0041] On the other hand, the aerosol generating device 1 may further include a general configuration in addition to the battery 11, the control unit 12, the heater 13, and the vaporizer 14. For example, the aerosol generating device 1 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. Further, the aerosol generating device 1 may include at least one sensor (such as a puff sensing sensor, a temperature sensing sensor, a cigarette insertion sensing sensor, etc.). Further, the aerosol generating device 1 can be manufactured in a structure in which external air flows in or internal gas flows out even when the cigarette 2 is inserted.

[0042] Although not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the aerosol generating device 1 can also form a system together with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can be used to charge the battery 11 of the aerosol generating device 1. Alternatively, the heater 13 may be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generating device 1 are coupled.

[0043] The cigarette 2 can be similar to a general combustion type cigarette. For example, the cigarette 2 can be divided into a first part containing an aerosol generating substance and a second part containing a filter or the like. Alternatively, the second part of the cigarette 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.

[0044] The entire first part is inserted inside the aerosol generating device 1, and the second part can be exposed to the outside. Alternatively, 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 while biting the second part with the mouth. At this time, the aerosol is generated when the outside air passes through the first part, and the generated aerosol passes through the second part and is transmitted to the user's mouth.

[0045] As an example, the outside air flows into the aerosol generating device 1 through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1. For example, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generating device 1 and / or the size of the air passage can be adjusted by the user. Thereby, the amount of atomization, the smoking feeling, etc. can be adjusted by the user. As another example, the outside air may flow into the inside of the cigarette 2 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the cigarette 2.

[0046] Hereinafter, an example of the cigarette 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0047] FIGS. 4 and 5 are diagrams showing an example of a cigarette.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 4, the cigarette 2 includes a tobacco rod 21 and a filter rod 22. The first part 21 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3 includes the tobacco rod 21, and the second part 22 includes the filter rod 22.

[0049] In FIG. 4, the filter rod 22 is shown as a single segment, but it 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.

[0050] The diameter of the cigarette 2 is within the range of 5 mm to 9 mm, and the length can be about 48 mm, but is not limited thereto. For example, the length of the tobacco rod 21 can be about 12 mm, the length of the first segment of the filter rod 22 can be about 10 mm, the length of the second segment of the filter rod 22 can be about 14 mm, and the length of the third segment of the filter rod 22 can be about 12 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0051] The cigarette 2 is wrapped by at least one wrapper 24. At least one hole is formed in the wrapper 24 through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. As an example, the cigarette 2 is wrapped by one wrapper 24. As another example, the cigarette 2 may be superposed and wrapped by two or more wrappers 24. For example, the tobacco rod 21 is wrapped by the first wrapper 241, and the filter rod 22 is wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244. Further, the whole cigarette 2 is repackaged by a single wrapper 245. In case the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, each segment is wrapped by the wrappers 242, 243, and 244.

[0052] 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. Further, the first wrapper 241 and the second wrapper 242 can be made of oil-resistant papers and / or aluminum laminated paper packaging agents.

[0053] The third wrapper 243 can be made of hard paper. For example, the basis weight of the third wrapper 243 may be included within the range of 88 g / m 2 ~96 g / m 2 and preferably may be included within the range of 90 g / m 2 ~94 g / m 2 Also, the thickness of the third wrapper 243 may be included within the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably may be 125 μm.

[0054] The fourth wrapper 244 can be made of oil-resistant hard tissue paper. For example, the basis weight of the fourth wrapper 244 may be included in the range of 88 g / m 2 to 96 g / m 2 and preferably may be included in the range of 90 g / m 2 to 94 g / m 2 . Also, the thickness of the fourth wrapper 244 may be included in the range of 120 μm to 130 μm, and preferably may be 125 μm.

[0055] 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 general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 245 may be included in 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 245 may be included in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably may be 67 μm.

[0056] A predetermined substance may be added to the fifth wrapper 245. Here, an example of the predetermined substance is silicon, but it 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 properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 245 without limitation.

[0057] The fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 from burning. Generally, when the tobacco rod 21 is overheated by the heater 13, the cigarette 2 may burn. Specifically, when the temperature rises above the ignition point of any one of the substances contained in the tobacco rod 31, the cigarette 2 can burn. According to one embodiment, even in such a case, since the fifth wrapper 245 contains a non-combustible substance, the phenomenon of the cigarette 2 burning is prevented.

[0058] In addition, the fifth wrapper 245 can prevent the contamination of the holder 1 by the substances generated by the cigarette 2. Depending on the user's puff, a liquid substance is generated inside the cigarette 2. For example, when the aerosol generated by the cigarette 2 is cooled by the external air, a liquid substance (such as moisture) is generated. In this case, by wrapping the cigarette 2 with the fifth wrapper 245, it is possible to prevent the liquid substance generated inside the cigarette 2 from leaking to the outside of the cigarette 2.

[0059] The tobacco rod 21 contains aerosol product substances. For example, the aerosol product substances can include, but are 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 can contain other additive substances such as flavoring agents, wetting agents, and / or organic acids. Also, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant can be added to the tobacco rod 21 by spraying it onto the tobacco rod 21.

[0060] The tobacco rod 21 can be manufactured in various ways. For example, the tobacco rod 21 may be made of a sheet or a strand. Also, the tobacco rod 21 may be made of cut tobacco in which the tobacco sheet is finely cut. Further, the tobacco rod 21 may be surrounded by a heat-conductive substance. For example, the heat-conductive substance can be a metal foil such as aluminum foil, but is not limited thereto. As an example, the heat-conductive substance 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. Further, the heat-conductive substance surrounding the tobacco rod 21 can function as a susceptor heated by an induction heating heater. At this time, although not shown in the drawings, the tobacco rod 21 can further include an additional susceptor in addition to the heat-conductive substance surrounding the outside.

[0061] 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 may be a tube-shaped rod including a hollow inside. Also, the filter rod 22 may be a recessed rod. In the event that the filter rod 22 is composed of a plurality of segments, at least one of the plurality of segments may be made in a different shape.

[0062] The first segment of the filter rod 22 can be a cellulose acetate filter. For example, the first segment can 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 is pushed backward, and a cooling effect of the aerosol can also be generated. The diameter of the hollow included in the first segment is preferably within the range of 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0063] 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.

[0064] By adjusting the content of the plasticizer during the manufacture of the first segment, the hardness of the first segment is adjusted. Also, the first segment can be manufactured by inserting a structure such as a film or a tube of the same or different materials inside (for example, the hollow).

[0065] The second segment of the filter rod 22 cools the aerosol generated by the heater 13 heating the tobacco rod 21. Therefore, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0066] The length or diameter of the second segment can be determined variously depending on the form of the cigarette 2. For example, the length of the second segment can 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.

[0067] The second segment can be made by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a flavoring liquid can also be applied to the fibers made of the polymer. Alternatively, the second segment can be made by weaving together fibers made of a polymer and separately provided fibers coated with a flavoring liquid. Or, the second segment is formed by a wound polymer sheet.

[0068] For example, the polymer can 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.

[0069] By being formed by woven polymer fibers or a wound polymer sheet of the second segment, the second segment may include one or more channels extending in the longitudinal direction. Here, the channel means a passage through which a gas (for example, air or aerosol) passes.

[0070] For example, the second segment made of a wound polymer sheet is 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 can be between about 300 mm 2 / mm and about 1000 mm 2 / mm. Also, the aerosol cooling element is formed of a material having a specific surface area between about 10 mm 2 / mg and about 100 mm 2 / mg.

[0071] On the one hand, the second segment may include a thread containing a volatile flavor component. Here, the volatile flavor 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.

[0072] The third segment of the filter rod 22 may be a cellulose acetate filter. The length of the third segment can 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.

[0073] 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 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 of enhancing the persistence of the fragrance transmitted to the user can be produced.

[0074] Furthermore, the filter rod 22 may include at least one capsule 23. Here, the capsule 23 can also 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.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 5, the cigarette 3 may further include a shear plug 33. The shear plug 33 can be located 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 liquefied aerosol from flowing from the tobacco rod 31 into the aerosol generating device (FIGS. 1 to 3) during smoking.

[0076] 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.

[0077] The diameter and the overall length of the cigarette 3 can correspond to the diameter and the overall length of the cigarette 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 are not limited thereto.

[0078] The cigarette 3 is wrapped by at least one wrapper 35. At least one hole is formed in the wrapper 35 through which external air flows in or internal gas flows out. For example, the shear plug 33 is wrapped by the first wrapper 351, the tobacco rod 31 is wrapped by the second wrapper 352, the first segment 321 is wrapped by the third wrapper 353, and the second segment 322 is wrapped by the fourth wrapper 354. Also, the entire cigarette 3 is re-wrapped by the fifth wrapper 355.

[0079] Also, at least one perforation 36 is 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.

[0080] Furthermore, the second segment 322 may include at least one capsule 34. Here, the capsule 34 can also perform a function of generating a fragrance or a function of generating an aerosol. For example, the capsule 34 can be a structure in which a liquid containing a fragrance is wrapped by a film. The capsule 34 may have a spherical or cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0081] The first wrapper 351 can be a general filter roll paper to which a metal foil such as aluminum foil is bonded. For example, the total 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 may be included within the range of 50 g / m 2 ~55 g / m 2 and preferably may be 53 g / m 2 .

[0082] The second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 can be made of a general filter roll paper. For example, the second wrapper 352 and the third wrapper 353 may be porous roll paper or non-porous roll paper.

[0083] For example, the porosity of the second wrapper 352 can 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 may be included within the range of 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and preferably may be 23.5 g / m 2 .

[0084] For example, the porosity of the third wrapper 353 can 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. Also, the basis weight of the third wrapper 353 is 20 g / m 2 ~25 g / m 2 and preferably may be 21 g / m 2 .

[0085] The fourth wrapper 354 can be made of PLA laminated paper. Here, the PLA laminated paper means 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 in 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 in the range of 80 g / m 2 ~100 g / m 2 and preferably may be 88 g / m 2 .

[0086] The fifth wrapper 355 can be made of sterilized paper (MFW). Here, the sterilized paper (MFW) means paper specially manufactured so that its tensile strength, water resistance, smoothness, etc. are enhanced compared to general paper. For example, the basis weight of the fifth wrapper 355 may be included in 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 355 may be included in the range of 64 μm to 70 μm, and preferably may be 67 μm.

[0087] A predetermined substance can be added to the fifth wrapper 355. Here, examples of the predetermined substance include, but are not limited to, silicon. For example, silicon has properties such as heat resistance with little change due to temperature, oxidation resistance 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 properties, it can be applied (or coated) to the fifth wrapper 355 without limitation.

[0088] The shearing plug 33 can be made of cellulose acetate. As an example, the shearing plug 33 can be made 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 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 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 shearing plug 33 may be 28,000.

[0089] Also, if necessary, the shearing plug 33 can include at least one channel, and the cross-sectional shape of the channel can be made in various ways.

[0090] The tobacco rod 31 can correspond to the above-described tobacco rod 21 with reference to FIG. 4. Therefore, the specific description of the tobacco rod 31 will be omitted below.

[0091] The first segment 321 can be made of cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment can be a tubular structure including a hollow inside. The first segment 321 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the mono denier and total denier of the first segment 321 can be the same as those of the shearing plug 33.

[0092] The second segment 322 can be made of 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. Further, 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 20000 to 30000, preferably may be 25000.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device 400 according to an embodiment.

[0094] The aerosol generating device 400 may include a control unit 410, a sensing 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 can understand that depending on the design of the aerosol generating device 400, a part of the configuration shown in FIG. 6 may be omitted, or a new configuration can be further added.

[0095] The sensing unit 420 can sense the state of the aerosol generating device 400 or the state around the aerosol generating device 400, and transmit the sensed information to the control unit 410. The control unit 410 can control the aerosol generating device 400 based on the sensed information so that various functions such as operation control of the heater 450, restriction of smoking, determination of whether an aerosol generating article (for example, a cigarette, a cartridge, etc.) can be inserted, and notification display are performed.

[0096] The sensing unit 420 may include at least one of a temperature sensor 422, an insertion sensing sensor 424, and a puff sensor 426, but is not limited thereto.

[0097] The temperature sensor 422 can sense 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 that senses the temperature of the heater 450, or the heater 450 itself can serve as a temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 422 may be arranged around the battery 440 to monitor the temperature of the battery 440.

[0098] The insertion sensing sensor 424 can sense the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article. For example, the insertion sensing sensor 424 can 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 can sense a signal change caused by the insertion and / or removal of the aerosol generating article.

[0099] The puff sensor 426 can sense the user's puff based on various physical changes in the air flow path or air flow channel. For example, the puff sensor 426 can sense the user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

[0100] In addition to the sensors (422 - 426) described above, the sensing 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 functions of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from its name, specific descriptions can be omitted.

[0101] 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 have 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.

[0102] 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 can 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 product, or a state in which the use of the aerosol generator 400 is restricted (e.g., abnormal article detection), and the display unit 432 can output the information to the outside. The display unit 432 can 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.

[0103] The haptic unit 434 can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and tactually provide information regarding the aerosol generator 400 to the user. For example, the haptic unit 434 may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0104] The acoustic output unit 436 can aurally provide information regarding the aerosol generator 400 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit 436 can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0105] 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 is heated. Also, the battery 440 can supply the power necessary for the operation of other components (for example, the sensing 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 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 440 may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0106] 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.

[0107] The control unit 410, the sensing 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 to 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.

[0108] In one embodiment, the heater 450 is formed of an electrically resistive material suitable for heating. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials can be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, etc. Also, 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.

[0109] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 450 can include a susceptor that generates heat through a magnetic field applied by a coil to heat the aerosol generating material.

[0110] In one embodiment, the heater 450 can include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 450 can include a first heater for heating a cigarette and a second heater for heating a liquid.

[0111] 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 be a keypad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch type, pressure resistive film type, infrared sensing type, surface acoustic wave conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezoelectric effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. Also, 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.

[0112] Memory 470 is hardware that stores various data processed within the aerosol generator 400, and can store the data processed by the control unit 410 and the data to be processed. 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, and an optical disk. Memory 470 can store data related to the operating time of the aerosol generator 400, the maximum puff count, the current puff count, at least one temperature profile, and the smoking pattern of the user.

[0113] The communication unit 480 may 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.

[0114] The 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 infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0115] 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., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0116] 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 may be implemented in other forms of hardware.

[0117] The control unit 410 can control the temperature of the heater 450 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 440 to the heater 450. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 440 and the heater 450. In other examples, according to the control instructions of the control unit 410, the direct heating circuit can also control the power supply to the heater 450.

[0118] The control unit 410 can analyze the results sensed by the sensing unit 420 and control the subsequent processing. For example, the control unit 410 can control the power supplied to the heater 450 so that the operation of the heater 450 starts or ends based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 420. In other examples, the control unit 410 can 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 maintains an appropriate temperature based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 420.

[0119] Based on the results sensed by the sensing unit 420, the control unit 410 can control the output unit 430. For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor 426 reaches a preset number, the control unit 410 can notify the user through at least one of the display unit 432, the haptic unit 434, and the acoustic output unit 436 that the aerosol generator 400 will end soon.

[0120] 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 sensed by the sensing 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 to increase the preheating time compared to when the aerosol generating article is in a normal state.

[0121] 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 can be any soluble medium accessible by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, and both separable and non-separable media. Further, the computer-readable medium can include both computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media includes both 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.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 11, a method for manufacturing a heating element (e.g., heaters 13, 450) according to an embodiment will be described. The order of operations for manufacturing the heating element is not limited to the order described in this document, and at least one additional operation may be included during the operations, or any of the described operations may be omitted, or the order of some operations may be changed.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 7, a method for manufacturing a heating element 550 may include an operation of preparing a substrate 551.

[0124] The substrate 551 can have a first dimension (e.g., length) in a first direction (e.g., + / -Y direction), a second dimension (e.g., width) in a second direction (e.g., + / -X direction) perpendicular to the first direction, and a third dimension (e.g., height) in a third direction (e.g., + / -Z direction) perpendicular to the first and second directions, respectively.

[0125] The substrate 551 can be formed at least partially of a metallic material. The substrate 551 can include any material suitable for transferring (e.g., conducting) heat. In one embodiment, the substrate 551 can include at least one of gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, platinum, iron, cobalt, nickel, and aluminum. In some embodiments, the substrate 551 can be formed of aluminum.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 8, a method for manufacturing a heating element 550 may include an operation of forming an oxide film 552 on one surface (e.g., the surface in the +Z direction) of the substrate 551. The oxide film 552 can be formed by oxidizing the material that at least partially forms the substrate 551. In one embodiment, the oxide film 552 can be formed on one surface of the substrate 551 by anodization (e.g., by applying an acid solution).

[0127] In one embodiment, the oxide film 552 can include aluminum oxide (Al2O3). The oxide film 552 formed of aluminum oxide can improve the heat transfer efficiency across the region covered by the oxide film 552 (e.g., one surface of the substrate 551).

[0128] Referring to FIG. 9, the method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include an operation of forming a plurality of dimples 553 on one surface (e.g., the surface in the +Z direction) of the substrate 551 on which the oxide film 552 is formed.

[0129] The plurality of dimples 553 can have any shape suitable for storing and holding a substance in a liquid state (e.g., an aerosol-generating substance). For example, the plurality of dimples 553 can be formed in a shape having a circular, elliptical, and other arbitrary curved edges, but are not limited thereto, and may be formed in a polygon forming at least one corner.

[0130] The plurality of dimples 553 can be formed so as not to penetrate the substrate 551. The substance in the liquid state stored and held in the plurality of dimples 553 is prevented from flowing through the substrate 551.

[0131] The plurality of dimples 553 can have any size suitable for storing and holding a substance in a liquid state. For example, the plurality of dimples 553 can have a size between about 30 nm and about 100 nm.

[0132] The plurality of dimples 553 can be regularly arranged on the substrate 551. The plurality of dimples 553 can be arranged at a defined interval in any defined direction (e.g., + / −X direction and / or + / −Y direction) on the substrate 551. For example, the defined interval can be in the range of about 10 nm to about 1,000 nm.

[0133] In one embodiment, the plurality of dimples 553 may include a plurality of first dimples 553A arranged in a first direction (e.g., + / −Y direction) of the substrate 551, and a plurality of second dimples 553B spaced apart from the plurality of first dimples 553A in a second direction (e.g., + / −X direction) perpendicular to the first direction of the substrate 551 and arranged in the first direction (e.g., + / −Y direction) of the substrate 551. In one embodiment, at least a part (e.g., all) of the plurality of first dimples 553A may not overlap the plurality of second dimples 553 when viewed from the second direction of the substrate 551.

[0134] In one embodiment, the plurality of dimples 553 may be irregularly arranged in any manner on the substrate 551.

[0135] The plurality of dimples 553 can have any depth suitable for storing and holding a substance in a liquid state. The depth of the plurality of dimples 553 may be smaller than the thickness of the substrate 551 on which the plurality of dimples 553 are formed.

[0136] Various parameters for the plurality of dimples 553, such as the size of the plurality of dimples 553, the spacing between adjacent dimples 553, and the depth of the plurality of dimples 553, are variously determined by the conditions for forming the oxide film 552 on one surface of the substrate 551. For example, the parameters can be adjusted according to the oxidation voltage, the type of acid applied, the concentration of the acid applied, and / or the temperature of the acid applied.

[0137] Referring to FIG. 10, a method of manufacturing the heating body 550 may include an operation of rolling the substrate 551 on which the oxide film 552 and the plurality of dimples 553 are formed. The operation of rolling the substrate 551 may include, for example, an operation of connecting, joining, or coupling one edge and the opposite edge of the substrate 551 so that the surface on which the oxide film 552 is not formed (for example, the inner surface 554D) defines a hollow portion 555 having an axis (A).

[0138] The heating body 550 having a shape formed by rolling the substrate 551 can act as a core 554 that stores and holds a substance in a liquid state in the plurality of dimples 553. The core 554 may include a first side 554A (for example, a first end face), a second side 554B (for example, a second end face) opposite to the first side 554A, and a third side extending between the first side 554A and the second side 554B. The third side may include an outer surface 554C on which the oxide film 552 and the plurality of dimples 553 are located, and an inner surface 554D opposite to the outer surface 554C and defining the hollow portion 555. The core 554 can have, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 11, a method of manufacturing the heating element 550 may include winding a coil 556 around an axis (A) along an outer surface 554C where an oxide film 552 and a plurality of dimples 553 are located between a first side 554A and a second side 554B of the core 554.

[0140] The coil 556 may include any material suitable for transferring heat (e.g., conduction). In one embodiment, the coil 556 can be formed of a metallic material. For example, the coil 556 may include at least one of kanthal, nickel, chromium, and stainless steel.

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, a method of using an aerosol generating device (e.g., aerosol generating device 1, 400) including a heating element 550 according to one embodiment will be described. The following operations of the aerosol generating device are exemplarily described to explain the advantages of the heating element 550, and it can be understood that the following description is not limited thereto and various operations are possible. For example, in addition to the operations described, there may be at least one additional operation, or some operations may be omitted, or the order of operations may be changed.

[0142] A method of using an aerosol generating device may include an operation of applying electrical energy (e.g., electric power) to the coil 556. When electrical energy is applied to the coil 556, heat can be generated from the coil 556. As the user sustains a puff through the aerosol generating device, the heat generated from the coil 556 may be conducted to the core 554. For this purpose, the coil 556 can be at least partially in contact with the outer surface 554C of the core 554. The oxide film 552 that improves the heat transfer efficiency can reduce the power consumption of the heating element 550 required for the heating element 550 to reach the target temperature (about 200 ° C) for vaporizing the aerosol generating substance. For example, as the puff continues, the heating start temperature of the heating element 550 can increase from about 25 ° C to about 80 ° C due to the heat conducted to the core 554. Therefore, the improvement in the power consumption of the heating element 550 eliminates the need for additional components to improve the energy efficiency of the heating element 550, and the size of the aerosol generating device can be reduced.

[0143] The features and aspects of any of the foregoing embodiments can be combined with the features and aspects of any other embodiment, provided that no obvious technical conflict results.

Claims

1. A core having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a third side extending between the first side and the second side; A coil wound along an outer surface of the third side between the first side and the second side; and comprising The third side includes an outer surface on which a plurality of dimples and an oxide film that do not penetrate the third side are formed, and an inner surface disposed opposite the outer surface and defining a hollow portion, and is a heating element.

2. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the core includes a metallic material.

3. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of dimples are formed on a nanometer scale.

4. The plurality of dimples include a plurality of first dimples arranged in a first direction on the outer surface; and a plurality of second dimples spaced apart from the plurality of first dimples in a second direction of the outer surface perpendicular to the first direction such that the first dimples and the second dimples are not completely overlapped in the second direction, and are arranged in the first direction on the outer surface, and the heating element according to claim 1.

5. The heating element according to claim 1, wherein the coil is at least partially in contact with the outer surface.

6. A storage for storing an aerosol generating substance; A heating element configured to heat the aerosol generating substance; and comprising The heating element includes a core having a first side, a second side opposite the first side, and a third side extending between the first side and the second side; a coil wound along an outer surface of the third side between the first side and the second side; and comprising The aerosol generating device, wherein the third side includes an outer surface on which a plurality of dimples and an oxide film that do not penetrate the third side are formed, and an inner surface that is disposed opposite to the outer surface and defines a hollow portion.

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